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towardinfinitybooks's review against another edition
3.0
3.5 stars.
Note: I read this book for Book Riot's 2016 Read Harder challenge. I'm counting it toward the task to read a play as well as the task to read a book of less than 100 pages.
Note: I read this book for Book Riot's 2016 Read Harder challenge. I'm counting it toward the task to read a play as well as the task to read a book of less than 100 pages.
sbnielsen's review against another edition
challenging
funny
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? Yes
3.75
jonjeffryes's review against another edition
4.0
I had to read through the first half of this monologue/dramatic essay twice before I was able to finish...but the perseverance paid off. This essay, which kind of reminded (in tone and style only) of Virginia Woolf's Room With a View, decries the complacency of people (especially wealthy people) who turn a blind eye to the suffering in the world. I think it helps to know that Shawn intended this monologue to be given to small groups of 10-12 at dinners and parties--realizing that gave the play more alienating heft that I found enjoyably uncomfortable.
destiny_jay's review against another edition
4.0
Read this in a hour. Absolutely thought provoking and making me want to read it again. Truly eye-opening.
jill_reads's review against another edition
5.0
Absolutely stunning and thought provoking. A monologue that makes you challenge everything and truly compels you to live a better and more compassionate life. Incredible.
jasminerice's review
challenging
dark
reflective
sad
fast-paced
4.5
absolutely brilliant!!! wallace shawn compels the reader to think critically about our socio-political framework at length and how we sacrifice our morality by accepting/complying with all the inequalities and injustices it promotes. he's ruthless in the way he reveals the truth of our guilt-free existence; how it's supported by a class of people that's eternally trapped in poverty, and the fact that the systematic establishment of the poor is a core tenet of capitalism. overall a very harrowing and powerful read
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