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A review by eely225
The Comedians by Graham Greene
4.0
Although Greene seems to mimic his introduction from Quiet American here by alluding to the conclusion, the tension established early does not re-emerge until the last 50 pages or so. This is in line with Greene's tendency to maximize time establishing the complex interpersonal dynamics of his characters, but because it comes exclusively through the voice of his ever-present avatar, in this case manifested as Mr. Brown. The world-weary, self-aware cynicism of the narrative works best when it is challenged, but because there are so few points at which Brown is confused, the tone can itself drag down the narrative.
The novel is at its best in its characterization of Smith and Jones, both pictures of heroism by means of idealism and self-deception. Because so much more time is spent on Brown's affair, which due to the retrospective narrative voice we known to be doomed, the best bits can be drowned out. The Smiths are, perhaps, Greene's best picture of a loving marriage yet. There's a good amount of them, but somehow not quite enough.
In retrospect, this title kind of blends in with The Heart of the Matter where Greene does not appear to challenge his tendencies, particularly in terms of his narration. The conclusion does a great deal, with the late characterization of Jones as well as of the Smiths throughout, but it takes a while to get there.
The novel is at its best in its characterization of Smith and Jones, both pictures of heroism by means of idealism and self-deception. Because so much more time is spent on Brown's affair, which due to the retrospective narrative voice we known to be doomed, the best bits can be drowned out. The Smiths are, perhaps, Greene's best picture of a loving marriage yet. There's a good amount of them, but somehow not quite enough.
In retrospect, this title kind of blends in with The Heart of the Matter where Greene does not appear to challenge his tendencies, particularly in terms of his narration. The conclusion does a great deal, with the late characterization of Jones as well as of the Smiths throughout, but it takes a while to get there.