readwreyn 's review for:

A Single Man by Christopher Isherwood

5.0

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Christopher Isherwood’s 1964 novel “A Single Man” is a striking exploration of grief and is known as one of the most forward-thinking books released in the 20th century. although the novel may be short, it has the perfect amount of raw and powerful emotions that will make you question a lot of things philosophically. the main character of this story is middle-aged English professor George, who deals with the loss of his partner Jim, all while being one of the most engaging educators at his university. George lives alone in a house that is slightly isolated from his neighbors, courtesy of a worn-out bridge that can barely let his car pass. his neighbors, completely unaware of his relationship with Jim, are moderately nice and keep him company. meanwhile, his friend, Charley, convinces him to get out of his house and have dinner as much as possible. after his dinner with Charley, one of George’s favorite students, Kenny, accompanies him inside a bar while they spark a conversation that opens a multitude of realizations. “A Single Man” may not be the most eventful novel for most people, but once one realizes that it was set in the 1960s, it becomes evident how innovating, and at times surprising, the masterful language used in this novel was. i’m so excited to watch the spectacular movie adaptation of this novel!