The Great Gatsby
by F. Scott Fitzgerald
it didn't leave much of an impression when i first read the book many many years ago. i probably didn't even get the whole story right and certainly had nothing to say about the writing. i was barely able to plow through it smoothly. its exceedingly high reputation had puzzled me since.
this time around, however, i have come to a shocking realization - towards the end - that this is likely the most well written book i have ever read! how vivid all characters, major and minor; and how the incredibly perfect delegation of just the right amount of attention to each. the layout of the whole plot is flawless while the pace of the story flows like a confident river, fast or slow as required. adding to that are the subtle and effective use of symbols and, of course, the very polished and elegant style.
i was not particularly touched by the story, even less the much lauded social implications - it was a re-read after all - yet enjoyed the book tremendously. almost as an artwork. and it is a puzzle no more.
this time around, however, i have come to a shocking realization - towards the end - that this is likely the most well written book i have ever read! how vivid all characters, major and minor; and how the incredibly perfect delegation of just the right amount of attention to each. the layout of the whole plot is flawless while the pace of the story flows like a confident river, fast or slow as required. adding to that are the subtle and effective use of symbols and, of course, the very polished and elegant style.
i was not particularly touched by the story, even less the much lauded social implications - it was a re-read after all - yet enjoyed the book tremendously. almost as an artwork. and it is a puzzle no more.
