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esterlegaz's review against another edition
informative
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
2.5
adamcarrington's review against another edition
3.0
A candid memoir about the passing of friends; the reminiscense of romance; and Amis' relections on his own fading powers - or at least, his changing relationship with the world. I interpret this book as being both a passing of the torch and a farewell to middle-age.
As a writer, he has always had candour and humour. These trademarks are recognisable whenever one reads Amis - and this book is addressed to the fourth wall, to the reader- talking them through the events of middle-age, diachronically. The blandness and the darkness. The predictability. Disappointment and the inevitability. The scenes with Christopher Hitchens are particularly endearing and moving, and strongly recommended for fans of him, or Larkin, or Saul Bellow - who's final years are also powerfully documented. Amis' friendship provides a uniquely vulnerable angle on the personalities of all three.
If you are unfamiliar with the high profile names of Amis' inner circle, I'd recommend that you read around for a bit and come back later. I can;t imagine it would be too enjoyable to come in cold like that.
As a writer, he has always had candour and humour. These trademarks are recognisable whenever one reads Amis - and this book is addressed to the fourth wall, to the reader- talking them through the events of middle-age, diachronically. The blandness and the darkness. The predictability. Disappointment and the inevitability. The scenes with Christopher Hitchens are particularly endearing and moving, and strongly recommended for fans of him, or Larkin, or Saul Bellow - who's final years are also powerfully documented. Amis' friendship provides a uniquely vulnerable angle on the personalities of all three.
If you are unfamiliar with the high profile names of Amis' inner circle, I'd recommend that you read around for a bit and come back later. I can;t imagine it would be too enjoyable to come in cold like that.
nancydrew's review against another edition
challenging
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.25
A challenging read from a generational notable. If you are anywhere near Amis' age, sometimes comforting and sometimes discomforting to read his reflections on life lived and what remains.
merrittbeacham's review
challenging
informative
reflective
medium-paced
4.0
Content Warnings
Moderate: Cancer, Dementia, Terminal illness, and Chronic illness
Minor: Child abuse, Pedophilia, and Adult/minor relationship
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