Pages

Monday, 15 February 2010

Review: Him With His Foot In His Mouth by Saul Bellow (1984, 294pp.)

This review contains a few excerpts from the book but doesn't spoil any surprises.

The copyright for this image belongs to the NEw York Times.Featuring just five short pieces, Him With His Foot In His Mouth might be an ideal introduction for those who have never read anything by Saul Bellow. The collection showcases his unique voice and style, while familiar readers can find some interesting new perspectives on the usual themes.

The longest story in the collection, for example, is called 'What Kind Of Day Did You Have?'. It's underscored by Bellow's trademark examination of what it means to live in a mass society more organised than its individual members, among the rubble of grand ideas and failed dreams. At the centre of the piece is Victor Wulpy, a mouthpiece for Bellow's various anthropolitical musings, trying 'to pole his way upon a walking stick against the human tides of airports'.

Excuses, excuses. . . .

For recent lack of posting to this blog:
  • A spate of busy-ness
  • A bout of illness
  • A series of recent musical interludes and upheavals