The Plague (Vintage International)

A book of many levels narrating the terrible cogency of our experience through the dark circumstances of pestilence levelling up to an allegory of war/occupation and ultimately to suffering and evil. A metaphysical account highlighting classic existentialist themes such as the recognition of the limitations of rationality and the need for making true choices and the crafting of purpose in...more

A book of many levels narrating the terrible cogency of our experience through the dark circumstances of pestilence levelling up to an allegory of war/occupation and ultimately to suffering and evil. A metaphysical account highlighting classic existentialist themes such as the recognition of the limitations of rationality and the need for making true choices and the crafting of purpose in response to the absurd. Hopeful and optimistic in its view of humans as more good than bad and highlighting the power of community and friendship, the author has compressed a powerful expression of humanism, and his own anxieties, between the covers of this well formulated and engaging novel. The author's view on the pitiful inadequacy of religion is interesting, but is borne out only by employing a grotesque caricature.   hide