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theobscurereader_7's review
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? N/A
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? N/A
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.75
mlzbthc's review
informative
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? N/A
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? N/A
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
danni_faith's review
I loved reading his thoughts on his work and the novel. But I LOVED that he came at Orwell's 1984, which I absolutely abhor.
whitelotusreads's review against another edition
challenging
funny
informative
inspiring
reflective
slow-paced
5.0
trsr's review
3.0
I should have read his novels before I read this one, perhaps. Perceptive glimpses into the history, life, and purpose of the novel, and on the art of its composition. Still, parts of this particular book struck me as the being a document recording the outrage of a pedant.
megggriffin's review
5.0
Kundera talks about the novel, explores how many of his came to be, and his great appreciation for other authors such as Kafka and musicians. I wish I had read this while I was studying his works in college, but either way - I love the man's work. And understanding the love and thought process that goes into it makes me love it more.
I only read one or a two of his books a year, but this might be the year I finish all I haven't read.
I only read one or a two of his books a year, but this might be the year I finish all I haven't read.
daaan's review
4.0
As with almost all Milan Kundera novels, this book is broken into 7 parts, each with it's own style and form. Given this is a work of nonfiction primarily focused on literary criticism that has made it slightly difficult to rate, as some sections were harder to read than others. The 1st, 2nd and closing sections were astounding, the insight into Kundera's writing style and his core beliefs were excellent. Section 5 was also brilliant, discussing Kafka, who I've read enough of to be able to grasp the truth of what was written. The 3rd 4th sections were harder to read as they were about a book I've never read and not quite enough detail was given to understand the points Kundera was making, but did give enough to make me want to acquire said books. The 6th section was an interesting experiment, and there were some flashes of inspiration there, but I found it unsatisfying. It also references a lot of Kundera's other works, many of which I've not read and that bogged the reading down quite a bit. All in all, a great read, one that I may well go back to after reading further works referenced.
danni_faith's review against another edition
I loved reading his thoughts on his work and the novel. But I LOVED that he came at Orwell's 1984, which I absolutely abhor.