I read this book for the first time in high school for class. I’ve probably read it three or four times since then. I’m trying really hard to get invested in it, but I just don’t think I get it. It doesn’t resonate with me.
I’m giving it another try, as an audiobook this time, and the voice performance definitely helps elevate the material, but still it’s a slog.
The author is very talented. Mechanically, he’s a *good* writer. The story structure is done well, and the characters are well written. I’m enjoying the dubiousness of the dialog.I just don’t… care, I guess. None of the characters make me care about them or their foibles. The lying, cheating, alcoholism, and otherwise pseudo-romantic drama is just something that doesn’t engage me in any meaningful way. If the book makes me feel anything, it’s irritation at how childish and obsessive the characters are. Which, of course is part of the satire of early 20th century affluence.
Am I missing something? I have not read many books like this that just turn me off, especially critically acclaimed ones. I want to make sure I’m approaching it with the right context and frame of mind before I resign myself to the fact that it’s probably just not for me.
by Tarmogoyf_