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tallulahjt's review
1.0
Let's just say I understand fully why this book is the bible for Patagonia-vest-wearing, Soylent-drinking, hentai-addicted, white tech bros who, to paraphrase Neal Stephenson himself, believe themselves too smart to be sexist.
I got a little over halfway through before I DNF'ed because I began spiraling into a dreadful reading slump. Despite all of this, I will say the writing is pretty good. Unfortunately, it is not good enough to make me care about the plot or characters or excuse the racism. Frankly, I'm beginning to think men just become authors as an excuse to force others to read their masturbatory fantasies and to use slurs with impunity!
Speaking of the characters, why is the female protagonist a fifteen year old with, as the reader is reminded frequently, a great ass..?
I got a little over halfway through before I DNF'ed because I began spiraling into a dreadful reading slump. Despite all of this, I will say the writing is pretty good. Unfortunately, it is not good enough to make me care about the plot or characters or excuse the racism. Frankly, I'm beginning to think men just become authors as an excuse to force others to read their masturbatory fantasies and to use slurs with impunity!
Speaking of the characters, why is the female protagonist a fifteen year old with, as the reader is reminded frequently, a great ass..?
messybuku's review against another edition
4.0
A Riveting Dive into Cyberpunk Realities
Neal Stephenson's Snow Crash is a thrilling exploration of a dystopian future where technology, linguistics, and societal dynamics collide in a spectacular narrative. This cyberpunk classic captures the essence of the genre, offering readers a captivating journey through a meticulously crafted world.
Stephenson's strength lies in his ability to construct a complex world filled with vibrant characters and thought-provoking themes. The exploration of linguistic theory, historical references, and the consequences of unchecked corporate power adds depth to the narrative. The partnership between Hiro and the skateboard courier, Y.T., injects humour and camaraderie, enhancing the overall reading experience.
The writing style is sharp and fast-paced, with Stephenson delivering intense action sequences that keep the reader engaged. The novel's thematic exploration of the dangers of capitalism and the intersection of technology and society remains relevant, providing a thought-provoking backdrop to the thrilling plot.
While "Snow Crash" is undeniably a standout work of speculative fiction, the 4/5 rating reflects a personal assessment that leaves room for improvement. I find certain elements of the plot complex or the pacing occasionally demanding. However, these nuances do not diminish the overall impact of Stephenson's narrative.
In conclusion, Snow Crash is a compelling read that offers a rich blend of cyberpunk aesthetics, intricate world-building, and social commentary. With its thought-provoking themes and engaging characters, this novel secures its place as a must-read for fans of the genre, even if a few elements may leave room for individual interpretation.
Neal Stephenson's Snow Crash is a thrilling exploration of a dystopian future where technology, linguistics, and societal dynamics collide in a spectacular narrative. This cyberpunk classic captures the essence of the genre, offering readers a captivating journey through a meticulously crafted world.
Stephenson's strength lies in his ability to construct a complex world filled with vibrant characters and thought-provoking themes. The exploration of linguistic theory, historical references, and the consequences of unchecked corporate power adds depth to the narrative. The partnership between Hiro and the skateboard courier, Y.T., injects humour and camaraderie, enhancing the overall reading experience.
The writing style is sharp and fast-paced, with Stephenson delivering intense action sequences that keep the reader engaged. The novel's thematic exploration of the dangers of capitalism and the intersection of technology and society remains relevant, providing a thought-provoking backdrop to the thrilling plot.
While "Snow Crash" is undeniably a standout work of speculative fiction, the 4/5 rating reflects a personal assessment that leaves room for improvement. I find certain elements of the plot complex or the pacing occasionally demanding. However, these nuances do not diminish the overall impact of Stephenson's narrative.
In conclusion, Snow Crash is a compelling read that offers a rich blend of cyberpunk aesthetics, intricate world-building, and social commentary. With its thought-provoking themes and engaging characters, this novel secures its place as a must-read for fans of the genre, even if a few elements may leave room for individual interpretation.
suvata's review
Continuing my TBR project:
This is one the oldest selection on my TBR list - Originally added February 7, 2015.
Apparently, I’m not a big fan of cyberpunk!
This is one the oldest selection on my TBR list - Originally added February 7, 2015.
Apparently, I’m not a big fan of cyberpunk!
zandeaux's review against another edition
adventurous
informative
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
A retro look at the future of VR under 1992’s lens of video tapes and CRT technology.
Time spent in the Metaverse itself is sparse, but fun.
YT’s perspective is always fast-paced and enjoyable; Hiro’s pace is mostly fine but crashes to a halt with massive info dumps when talking with The Librarian.
Overall, the pace redeems itself, bringing the score from a 3.75 when slogging through The Librarian, to a 4.0 overall.
Time spent in the Metaverse itself is sparse, but fun.
YT’s perspective is always fast-paced and enjoyable; Hiro’s pace is mostly fine but crashes to a halt with massive info dumps when talking with The Librarian.
Overall, the pace redeems itself, bringing the score from a 3.75 when slogging through The Librarian, to a 4.0 overall.
libraryam's review
2.0
DNF. Man, did I want to like this because it should’ve been my jam. However, it was just too beat-you-over-the-head, how-many-nerd-cards-can-I-play in one story?, are we there yet?”, for me.
And I was a huge LOST fan so I think my narrative patience is pretty strong.
And I was a huge LOST fan so I think my narrative patience is pretty strong.
manowar666's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
informative
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.5
j3r3's review
4.0
Great read
Fascinating world and very nerdy a book that i didnt want to put down. A great story that kept me engaged and excited to find out what happens next.
Fascinating world and very nerdy a book that i didnt want to put down. A great story that kept me engaged and excited to find out what happens next.
dontthink2x's review against another edition
challenging
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.0
It was a rough read for me - I was not really into all the religion, babble and virus stuff. It dragged on and often did not explain WHY characters were doing what they were. Cool premise and world-building, though.
malenfant's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
funny
informative
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
5.0