Book Description
IN 1929, THE FIFTH YEAR of the Fascist era and the twenty-first year of Alberto Moravia's life, the Italian literary world was stunned by the appearance of his first novel, The Time of Indifference. It was a deceptively simple story - five characters, the events of a few days, the intrigues of families and lovers.
The place is Rome. The central figure is Michele, a young man in confused but furious rebellion against the emptiness of bourgeois life. His father is dead; his mother, Mariagrazia, desperately clings to her bored lover, Leo; his sister has no hope of marriage or career and bleakly prepares to give herself to Leo as well. A frequent visitor is Leo's former lover, Lisa, ostensibly Mariagrazia's friend, a woman who feels she is in the final late bloom before age destroys beauty. She longs to make Michele her lover, but he is bored and disgusted by her pretenses, her vanity, her desperation.
All five are cast loose on the sea of modern life - obsessed with what they want, what they feel they are owed, the wrongs that have been done them, their loneliness. What Moravia destroys forever in this pitiless novel is the illusion that a world of ever-growing material comfort can ever feed the human soul.
Customer Reviews:
Existential Soap Opera.......2006-12-24
As my review title indicates, I think of this novel as a an existential soap opera. It has tawdry romances, dramas, intrigues, centering mostly around shallow characters with predictable emotions. But through the main character, Michele, Moravia explores contemporary trends in modern Western culture, society, and thought.
So this book is both a pleasantly engaging page-turner and a pleasantly engaging intellectual treat. It's still not as good as Moravia's later works, particularly Boredom and The Conformist, in sexiness, intelligence, or originality. But I still highly recommend it.
..........2001-12-12
I am a big fan of Moravia, but I consider this to be one of his worst novels. There are only 5 characters and the novel is 300+ pages long, which makes reading it sort of a bore. Not a complete failure, worthy of one star, but seems to be far inferior to everything else written by the author.
Early Work of a Great Writer.......2001-05-06
Five people of the Roman middle class interact in this novel. Mariagrazia Ardengo, the mother, will not give up her pretensions though financially ruined and without hope for the future. She has two children, both in their twenties. Carla, who is bored with her present life, wants to change it drastically and overnight. Michele, who shows the indifference of the book's title, cannot get aroused by anything or anybody. Lisa, the mother's friend, has sunk to the level of a fat, penniless tramp, searches desperately for somebody to love her - or to at least pretend it. And then there is Leo. Leo used to be the lover of Lisa, until Mariagrazia took him away from her. Leo is the source of their financial ruin. Leo has money. Leo wants something fresher, younger, unspoiled. Leo goes after Carla. And he succeeds. After Mariagrazia and Lisa spend their time fighting over Leo, they are now left out in the cold. Michele cannot be touched by any of this but hopes that, one of these days, he can get a real life.
Moravia started on this book when he was eighteen and it was published in 1929 when he was twenty-one. He did not have the life experience he so stunningly shows in his later work. I get the impression that he studied too much of the French literature of those times and tried to follow it. That makes this novel less than perfect and somewhat outdated.
Book Description
The wind whines and howls with bitter breath. Lightning snarls and barks. Rage is an animate force upon the plain of glittering stone. Even shadows are afraid.At the heart of the plain stands a vast grey stronghold, unknown, older than any written memory. One ancient tower has collapsed across the fissure. From the heart of the fastness comes a great deep slow breath like that of a slumbering world-heart, cracking the olden silence.Death is eternity. Eternity is stone. Stone is silence.Stone cannot speak but stone remembers.So begins the next movement of Glittering Stone....The tale again comes to us from the pen of Murgen, Annalist and Standard Bearer of the Black Company, whose developing powers of travel through space and time give him a perspective like no other.Led by the wily commander, Croaker, and the Lady, the Company is working for the Taglian government, but neither the Company nor the Taglians are overflowing with trust for each other. Arrayed against both is a similarly tenuous alliance of sorcerers, including the diabolical Soulcatcher, the psychotic Howler, and a four-year-old child who may be the most powerful of all.
Customer Reviews:
It Is Immortality Of A Sort.......2006-07-28
She is the Darkness is the second of the 'Murgen' chronicles, which tell the story of the Black Company's final struggle with the shadowmasters and the factions fighting for power in Taglios. The latter, almost without exception, would like to see Croaker's band of mercenaries dead and gone. They only argue about exactly when the gala event will occur. Driven by a desire to return to their origin in Khatovar the company is really intent on reaching the Shadowgate and finding out what is beyond it. Unfortunately enemies old and new seem determined to get in the way.
Murgen is a pure storytelling device. Unlike other narrators or annalists, Murgen is separated from the action by his role as ethereal spy. A paranoid sorcerer called Smoke lies in a coma, and the company has found that it is possible to ride Smoke's spirit like a spy plane. Murgen spends his time visiting both the present and the past and actually gets to do remarkable little. As a result the reader is one extra remove from what is actually going on. He's not spectacularily bright or talented either, so there are moments when the reader has a better idea of what is going to happen and can even tell it better. Murgen thinks the book is about him, and that he is a victim of circumstance and the plotting of others. The truth is that he brings many of his woes down on himself, and when offered opportunities to take his own action, he just retreats into Smoke.
In a sense Glen Cook has done the same thing. The story is richly detailed - a gritty fantasy with a Southeast Asian setting. The main characters are vivid with complicated problems to solve, but Cook keeps too many secrets, always introducing more questions than he resolves. She is the Darkness has a lot of loose ends to tie off before it comes to its grand cliffhanger of an ending. However, once embarked on this strange journey, the reader will find this a hard book to put down. But don't expect pat answers. Cook has never been one to lead you to the obvious.
Slowly back to form...........2005-07-07
A good book...but not quite at the same level as some of the earlier ones.
The Black Company Rules........2004-01-12
Yet another doozy for the Black Company. I hate reviews that discuss the plot or give a synopsis, so I won't do that. You can find enough here. This review is merely to tell anyone doubting that though this is the EIGHTH book in the series, it is still as fantastic as the first one. Rare in any series.
Murgen is the narrator in this one, and is still hopping around time and place while passed out. If you don't know what I am talking about, you need to read the first seven books before even worrying about this one. The Company is still heading to Khatovar, and Soulcatcher is still being a pain. I suppose that I am discussing plot now, violating my rule, but what the heck.
Long story short, Cook manages to maintain a gritty, funny, enticing and absorbing tale after 30 years of Company and thousands of pages. Bravo.
She Is The Darkness.......2003-08-06
The saga of the Black Company continues as Khatovar draws ever nearer... or does it?
Really a 3 1/2 or 4-. It's strange -- I keep hearing people tell me that this series, which I've never read before, gets worse toward the end, but this book is one of the best yet. Far better characterized than the early volumes, it's from the point of view of Murgen, the standardbearer. Disturbances in Murgen's consciousness and a concomitant decline in his physical state add tension. Though here and there a plot thread is not fully developed and the book gets slow about 3/4 of the way through, overall it works well and the end is an eyecatcher. Like the others in the series, though, it does not stand alone, so will be of interest only to readers of the preceding books.
Best of the Worst.......2001-05-05
Most everything in this novel is a mixed bag, beginning with the new annalist, Murgen. At his best, Murgen gives some interesting new insight into old characters (especially Croaker), and does a fair job of recording events. At his worst, he's too self-involved to report anything beyond his own misery. A misery Cook fails to sell to the reader, so it quickly becomes annoying. The sad part is, Croaker points this out near the end...which I guess was Cook's way of saying, "I'm sorry, I know it sucks."
Another problem with the novel is Smoke. His unique perspective takes most of the suspense out of the story. In order to surprise the reader, Cook is forced to invent one weak excuse after another for why Smoke's ability failed. That gets old, fast. What little suspense remains concerns Croaker's plan for marching their army, in winter, to certain doom against Mogaba's forces. The outcome of that is so pathetically lame it can't help but come as a surprise.
The high point of the novel is Soulcatcher. She's one of the most colorful villains to appear in any fantasy novel, and she really shines here. Even though most of her attempts at revenge are senseless and feeble, she at least has some success. That's a welcome change from the "All Powerful Idiots" that called themselves the Shadow Masters. If you're a fan of the series, the novel is worth reading just for the glimpses of Soulcatcher.
The problem with Soulcatcher is that her true name is in Croaker's annals; figuring it out is a simple process of elimination. There were four sisters; Lady is Dorotea; the Dominator tried to disarm Lady using both Ardath and Sylith; the Dominator knew the true names of the original Taken, so he wouldn't have used Soulcatcher's true name on Lady; that leaves just Credence. End of Soulcatcher.
There are other nagging flaws, but over-all, this is the best of the "Glittering Stone" saga (but that's not saying much). The ending is a real shocker.
Average customer rating:
- Two good stories, though weak in parts
- You have to picture the stories in your mind
- An Absolute Rarity... A Must Buy!
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Kaleidoscope and There Was an Old Woman
Ray Bradbury
Manufacturer: DH Audio
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Audio Cassette
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The Ravine and Here There Be Tigers
ASIN: 0886466644 |
Customer Reviews:
Two good stories, though weak in parts.......2002-07-04
Of all of the Bradbury Durkin-Hayes audiobooks, this is the weakest. "Kaleidoscope" is a good story, with the hopelessness being evident quickly, and it keeps well until the bitter end. "There Was an Old Woman" is hard to follow at first (it starts out as a one-woman perspective at first, but changes later). It's a good story too, but not as good as the others in the series. Both are definitely worth listening to though.
You have to picture the stories in your mind.......2002-02-03
Kaleidoscope and There Was an Old Woman are both well acted and well told stories that you have to visualize in your mind what the characters and situation looks like. It is better then just a plain audio book where someone is just reading and even better then a TV show where there is little left to imagine. I do take issue with the commentary by Ray Bradbury at the end of the stories. He seems to say we should be afraid of time and death, which is something I don't believe. The fact that life in this universe is limited is what makes it precious and we don't know what lies beyond this life that also makes the journey that much greater. I also take issue with the notion that certain people that are "genetically endowed" should be given preferential treatment by not being put in harms way because of the creative contribution they will give to our society. Who is to say who will be a greater contributor to society because of there genes? And further more it is by not given anyone special consideration and watching them work and struggle by themselves is what brings about creative genius.
An Absolute Rarity... A Must Buy!.......2000-07-28
"They fell..." "They fell like pebbles fall down wells... "
With this inauspicious beginning, the Mind's Eye Theatre does something that I never thought possible... They improved upon a master.
Ray Bradbury's original story "Kaleidoscope", of the last moments of a group of astronauts, is a truly poignant examination of humanity in freeze frame... A meteor destroys the rocket that the astronauts were travelling in before they could abandon ship with booster packs, thereby scattering them to the far reaches of the universe. The reactions of each man to imminent death is a true portrait of the variation of humanity.
The dramatic rendering of this story creates a sometimes clausterphobic, sometimes expansive feel, depending upon the reaction of each man. Hearing their final transmissions, their inner voices, their memories, and even their expectations of their very short futures makes one agonize and rejoice at each turn. This is voyeurism of humanity long before "Survivor" and "Big Brother". In this case, all of them have been voted off the island by something out of their control.
The superb acting, sound effects, and tight script turns an excellent story into a thrilling, poignant, emotionally taut masterwork. If you like Ray Bradbury, or if you just like good theater, buy this and all of the dramatic versions of his works. "There Was An Old Woman" is very enjoyable, if in a different vein...
Book Description
Faith and Culture has become a field of crucial importance in recent years. Clashing Symbols breaks new ground in presenting a wide area of reflection on the relationship between faith and the powerful cultural contexts surrounding believers today. Michael Paul Gallagher introduces readers to the main insights, theories, and controversies being discussed by individuals and church bodies.
Early chapters discuss the many meanings of culture, then specifically religious responses to culture, focusing on Vatican II and resolutions from the World Council of Churches. Themes concerning modernity and postmodernity are explored in detail, especially from a religious point of view. The final four chapters deal with more pastoral themes: the challenges of inculturation, discernment, youth ministry and the outlines of a spirituality for today's culture.
Drawing on the work of some of the leading thinkers in the field, this clearly written work is a natural for specialists and academics. It will also be valuable for anyone who wishes to understand the increasing relevance of culture for theology and for religious commitment today. In addition, it will also help "ordinary" Christians to understand the realities and challenges of contemporary culture with wisdom, with confidence, and in the light of faith.
Book Description
This digital document is an article from Theological Studies, published by Theological Studies, Inc. on June 1, 1999. The length of the article is 3671 words. The page length shown above is based on a typical 300-word page. The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase. You can view it with any web browser.
Citation Details
Title: CLASHING SYMBOLS: AN INTRODUCTION TO FAITH AND CULTURE.(Review)(Brief Article)
Author: John F. Kavanaugh
Publication:
Theological Studies (Refereed)
Date: June 1, 1999
Publisher: Theological Studies, Inc.
Volume: 60
Issue: 2
Page: 391
Article Type: Book Review, Brief Article
Distributed by Thomson Gale
Book Description
This unique exceptionally comprehensive dictionary contains over 25,000 entries covering food identification, preparation and cooking methods, nutrition, sanitation, tools and equipment, wine, beer and spirits, cigars, international foods, food chemistry, historical and cultural terms, hospitality terms and prepared dishes.
Authoritative yet concise entries
Accurate use of capitalization and accent marks
Simple, alphabetical listing for all entries, including abbreviations
Extensive cross-references
285 line drawings
Easy to read typeface and format
Phonetic pronunciation guides
Additionally, there are 14 appendices covering areas such as: metric conversions, measurement equivalents, commonly used international terms, sugar cooking temperatures, oversized wine bottles and more!
Book Description
This unique exceptionally comprehensive dictionary contains over 25,000 entries covering food identification, preparation and cooking methods, nutrition, sanitation, tools and equipment, wine, beer and spirits, cigars, international foods, food chemistry, historical and cultural terms, hospitality terms and prepared dishes.
Authoritative yet concise entries
Accurate use of capitalization and accent marks
Simple, alphabetical listing for all entries, including abbreviations
Extensive cross-references
285 line drawings
Easy to read typeface and format
Phonetic pronunciation guides
Additionally, there are 14 appendices covering areas such as: metric conversions, measurement equivalents, commonly used international terms, sugar cooking temperatures, oversized wine bottles and more!
Average customer rating:
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The Prentice Hall Essentials Dictionary of Culinary Arts
Sarah R. Labensky ,
Gaye G. Ingram , and
Steven R. Labensky
Manufacturer: Prentice Hall
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
General
| Cooking, Food & Wine
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Reference
| Cooking, Food & Wine
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General
| Dictionaries & Thesauruses
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Science
| Dictionaries & Thesauruses
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General
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ASIN: 013170463X |
Average customer rating:
- What "Happy Motoring" Is All About
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The Esso Collectibles Handbook: Memorabilia from Standard Oil of New Jersey (Schiffer Book for Collectors)
J. Sam McIntyre , and
J. Sam McLntyre
Manufacturer: Schiffer Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
General
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Oil & Energy
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ASIN: 0764305182 |
Book Description
Here is the first book written about collectibles from the Standard Oil Company of New Jersey, including Esso, Humble, and affiliate companies. To complete this authoritative guide, the author enlisted help from other collectors and included photographs of their prized collections. The result contains photographs and comments about some items so rare that the only ones known are reproduced here for the first time-this may be the only time you will ever see them. Also photographs of common items are here with comments on their origins. Globes, pumps, cans, signs, map racks, banners, lighters, ashtrays, buttons, toys, knives, and credit cards all will bring back memories. Gas and oil memorabilia collectors and all those with an affection for Esso and Standard Oil Company of New Jersey memorabilia will want this valuable reference work.
Customer Reviews:
What "Happy Motoring" Is All About.......2001-09-14
"The Esso Collectors Handbook" is perhaps the best book for collectors interested in gasoline memoribillia by far. I enjoyed
looking at rare items given away at Esso and Enco stations nationwide. My favorite part of the book is a collection of Tiger
giveaways. This is such a good book.
Book Description
sing a range of recycled materials from nylon, cotton, and Lycra, to crimplene and plastic bags, Lizzie Reakess designs have a wit and originality that will inspire even the most reluctant needlecrafter to reach for a canvas. Twenty-four exciting and original projects include: Shaped hearth rugsCushion covers Patchwork squaresShoulder bags Childrens activity matsHair accessories Sentimental samplersTies Wall bannersMuslin curtains And much more!Reakess projects combine hand-hooking and simple appliqu to eye-catching effect. An explanation of each project is illustrated with clear step-by-step photographs. Also included are templates for over a dozen designs. With its extensive guide to choosing materials and making the best use of color, pattern, and texture, this is the ideal book for the ragwork enthusiast and for anyone who wants a stellar introduction to this exciting craft.
Customer Reviews:
Beautiful Ragwork.......2004-07-24
Where as I wouldn't say this is a beginners book, it does cover the basics. I think this is a great book for someone who is interested in seeing what else is possible with this medium.
Average customer rating:
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Adolph Menzel: Catalogue of His Graphic Work
Elfried Bock
Manufacturer: Alan Wofsy Fine Arts
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
General
| Graphic Arts
| Graphic Design
| Design & Decorative Arts
| Arts & Photography
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General
| Artists, A-Z
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General
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ASIN: 1556601247 |
Product Description
Windows 3.1 and Windows 95. While playfully flying above the kingdom one day, Prince Darby finds a dazzling magic wand. Unaware of the wand's magical powers, he makes a wish he wishes he hadn't wished, and accidentally shrinks his big sister, Sparkle! Unable to use the wand again, they seek the help of Solwyn, the mystical wizard. Solwyn can remove the spell on Sparkle but needs the young dragons to find enchanted ingredients for his potion. Together you will explore the extraordinary lands of Dragondale and meet grumpy trolls, playful fairies, and singing troubadors.
Average customer rating:
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Dragon Entertains
Roderick
Manufacturer: Beekman Books Inc
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Entertainment
| Subjects
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| Humor
| Movies
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| Performing Arts
| Pop Culture
| Puzzles & Games
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| Sheet Music & Scores
| Television
Entertainers
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General
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General
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ASIN: 0846452065 |
Books:
- The Two Hearts of Kwasi Boachi: A Novel
- The Valley of the Squinting Windows
- The Words Don't Fit in My Mouth
- Three Novels: The Soft Machine, Nova Express, the Wild Boys
- Thumbelina (Classics Illustrated Junior)
- Touching Fire: Erotic Writings by Women
- Triomf
- Tuyo Es El Reino / Thine Is the Kingdom (Andanzas) (Andanzas)
- Under a Friendship Moon
- Under The Man-fig
Books Index
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