A review by butchjadeharley
Sacred And Terrible Air by Robert Kurvitz

challenging dark mysterious reflective sad medium-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? It's complicated

5.0

the most notable thing about sacred and terrible air is its absolutely beautiful, poetic prose. packed with metaphors, it can be very difficult to understand what's actually going on. this flowery writing style packed with the complete lack of exposition for elysium's world makes this a hugely challenging and rewarding read (i imagine even moreso if you haven't played disco elysium.)

the main theme of sacred and terrible air is nihilism. the plot revolves around the pale. the pale! what an existentially nightmarish little thing! by the end,
the whole world is engulfed by the pale, but not before a brutal world war which literally nukes revachol. poor revachol! :[


do not read this book if you want a satisfying conclusion. sacred and terrible air is not a mystery/thriller, it's an incredibly metaphorical exploration of memory, hope, and nihilism.