Monday, 8 September 2014

Requiem for a dream by Hubert Selby Jnr



"The red dress fits, her hair is like Rita Hayworth, her gold shoes sparkle and she was going to be on the television, a dream, a dream and she should be happy, she should be happy!!!!"


Things not to read when you’re under a lot of stress and living on long blacks, I present exhibit A. I was compelled to throw myself into the mire of despair that is this novel on my never-ending quest to complete the 1001 novels to read before you die list and also despite having seen the unforgettable film version.

Anyone who has seen the film, or read the novel, will tell you that this is a story you will find difficult to erase from your mind. It feels strangely contemporary, given its vintage, it was first published in 1978. Certainly some of the drug parlance might have changed, but the circumstances remain the same, heroin is a fair weather friend and diet pills line the path to madness.

For some interesting insight into the author see http://www.salon.com/2000/10/26/selby_2/
The novel has a somewhat addictive voice, it draws you in, and before you know it you’re hooked – bang on given the subject matter. 

5 out of 5 highs come down low.

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