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jodiguerra's review against another edition
3.0
I adore Eudora Welty, but this work is a very difficult read. With a cast of over 20 named characters, it was difficult to get into a rhythm with the work. The descriptions are wonderful, but at the end of the book, I still wasn't quite sure I knew what Welty was saying. Several episodes in the tale left me scratching my head. (What was with the watermelon baptism of sorts with Gloria?)
I have spent many summers in Mississippi, and so I could very much relate to the extended family aspects, the prodigious numbers of cousins, the simple joys of food and family, the story upon story. Is there anything better than listening to your relatives tell a fun story, cracking everyone up? The comedic parts were delightful. I miss the comedy of yesteryear which didn't rely on curse words and vulgarities. This is simple but playful comedy, and it's no less effective.
I'd love to know if your families all have a Jack? I think most do, the golden-boy who will save the farm and whom everyone loves. I think most have an Aunt Cleo too, the one who "marries in" and just doesn't seem to get it.
It was hard to get going with "Losing Battles," but I'm glad I persevered. I think this is one of those works which will continue to percolate inside and provide insights much later.
I have spent many summers in Mississippi, and so I could very much relate to the extended family aspects, the prodigious numbers of cousins, the simple joys of food and family, the story upon story. Is there anything better than listening to your relatives tell a fun story, cracking everyone up? The comedic parts were delightful. I miss the comedy of yesteryear which didn't rely on curse words and vulgarities. This is simple but playful comedy, and it's no less effective.
I'd love to know if your families all have a Jack? I think most do, the golden-boy who will save the farm and whom everyone loves. I think most have an Aunt Cleo too, the one who "marries in" and just doesn't seem to get it.
It was hard to get going with "Losing Battles," but I'm glad I persevered. I think this is one of those works which will continue to percolate inside and provide insights much later.
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