Angels : Book Review

"Angels" by Denis Johnson is an gripping and intense novel that delves deep into the lives of a group of desperate individuals in 1980s Los Angeles. The story follows Jamie, a young man lost in life and addicted to drugs, as he becomes entangled with unsavory characters and embarks on a destructive journey. Johnson's writing is raw and visceral, painting a bleak picture of the city's underbelly and exploring themes of addiction, violence, and spirituality.

The characters in "Angels" are vividly portrayed, each with their own traumas and demons. Jamie, especially, is a complex and troubled protagonist, constantly teetering on the edge of self-destruction. Johnson's portrayal of addiction is brutally honest, capturing the despair and hopelessness that often accompanies such a destructive habit. The supporting characters are equally intriguing, with their own dark stories and motivations that add depth to the narrative.

The setting of 1980s Los Angeles is brought to life through Johnson's evocative prose. The city becomes a character itself, with its gritty streets, seedy motels, and neon-lit landscapes serving as a backdrop for the characters' downward spirals. The writing is poetic and lyrical, juxtaposing beauty with ugliness, and capturing the characters' desperation and longing.

One standout aspect of "Angels" is Johnson's exploration of spirituality and transcendence amidst the chaos and darkness. As Jamie grapples with his addiction and searches for meaning, he encounters various spiritual figures and experiences moments of transcendence. These moments are haunting and profound, offering glimpses of redemption and hope amidst the despair.

Overall, "Angels" is a powerful and haunting novel that fearlessly portrays addiction, violence, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. Johnson's writing is evocative and poetic, capturing the raw emotions and struggles of his characters. This novel is a deeply affecting read that stays with the reader long after the story ends.

What are readers saying?

Denis Johnson's novel Angels has garnered a range of reviews from readers. The story follows Jamie and Bill, two drifters who embark on a journey of drug addiction, crime, and redemption.

Many readers praised the book's gritty and raw depiction of addiction and the dark underworld of Los Angeles. They found Johnson's writing style captivating, with vivid descriptions that brought the characters and their surroundings to life. The exploration of complex themes, such as moral ambiguity, the search for purpose, and the destructive nature of addiction, was lauded.

However, some readers found the storytelling disjointed and challenging to follow. The narrative jumps between different characters and timelines, leading to confusion and detracting from the overall reading experience. In addition, a few readers struggled to connect with the characters emotionally, finding them lacking in depth.

Despite these criticisms, many readers commended Johnson's creation of a dark and atmospheric world that mirrored the characters' descent into addiction. They appreciated the author's descriptive prose and his ability to craft powerful and memorable scenes. The book's exploration of the human condition and the consequences of one's choices resonated with readers, leaving a lasting impact.

Overall, opinions on Angels by Denis Johnson are mixed. Some readers appreciated the novel's gritty portrayal of addiction and its exploration of complex themes, while others found the storytelling challenging and the character development lacking. Nevertheless, the book's atmospheric writing style and thought-provoking content have left a lasting impression on many readers.

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