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A review by caelestiore
Hour of the Star by Clarice Lispector
3.0
Ask me any details about this book in a few months and I wouldn’t give you an answer (with heart-breaking quotes as an exception). While this book may not be the most substantial read, it's one that has managed to carve out a little niche in my heart.
“I, who symbolically die several times just to experience the resurrection.”
One thing that conflicted me was that this book has no concreteness. Forget the plot and character and world-building; this book weaves a mood. It's like listening to a drunk man speaking; diving deep into this sad, philosophical rabbit-hole that’s devoid of any real substance. A very slippery, spasmodic, stirring style of writing. Yet, I found myself compelled to see it through to the end. Maybe it was out of obligation or boredom... or maybe a masochistic appreciation for Clarice Lispector’s lyrical prose.
“But there’s the rub: this story has no technique, nor style, it lives from hand to mouth.”
Despite the ramblings, there are occasional moments of genuine insight hidden within the lines. Would I read from her again? Yes. The sickeningly saccharine prose may be too much, but I know I will crave it again.
“Make no mistake, I only achieve simplicity with enormous effort.”
“I, who symbolically die several times just to experience the resurrection.”
One thing that conflicted me was that this book has no concreteness. Forget the plot and character and world-building; this book weaves a mood. It's like listening to a drunk man speaking; diving deep into this sad, philosophical rabbit-hole that’s devoid of any real substance. A very slippery, spasmodic, stirring style of writing. Yet, I found myself compelled to see it through to the end. Maybe it was out of obligation or boredom... or maybe a masochistic appreciation for Clarice Lispector’s lyrical prose.
“But there’s the rub: this story has no technique, nor style, it lives from hand to mouth.”
Despite the ramblings, there are occasional moments of genuine insight hidden within the lines. Would I read from her again? Yes. The sickeningly saccharine prose may be too much, but I know I will crave it again.
“Make no mistake, I only achieve simplicity with enormous effort.”