Billy Budd, Sailor and Other Uncompleted Writings: The Writings of Herman Melville, Volume 13 : Book Review

"Billy Budd, Sailor and Other Uncompleted Writings" is a collection of unfinished works by the renowned author Herman Melville. This book not only showcases Melville's storytelling prowess, but also delves into complex themes and moral dilemmas that his readers have come to expect. The centerpiece of the collection is the novella "Billy Budd, Sailor," a tale that explores the themes of innocence and corruption.

The story revolves around Billy, a young sailor who possesses an extraordinary innocence and charm. Unfortunately, his goodness becomes a target for the ship's master-at-arms, John Claggart, whose jealousy is aroused by Billy's popularity among the crew. As tensions rise, the novella delves into the nature of good and evil and the tragic consequences that unfold.

In addition to "Billy Budd, Sailor," the book includes fragments of novels, unpolished short stories, and even a play, offering readers a chance to appreciate Melville's genius. Though these works may lack a complete narrative structure, they still bear the hallmark of his ability to create rich characters and evoke powerful emotions.

What makes "Billy Budd, Sailor and Other Uncompleted Writings" charming is its revelation of Melville's creative process. The unfinished nature of the works allows readers to witness the evolution of his ideas and the potential directions these incomplete tales could have taken. It presents an intriguing exploration for fans of Melville's writing, providing a deeper understanding of his literary genius.

Overall, this collection serves as a testament to Melville's literary prowess, and it offers readers a tantalizing encounter with his unfinished works. It is a must-read for fans of Melville's novels such as "Moby-Dick" and "Bartleby, the Scrivener," as well as for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of human nature through the lens of classic American literature. "Billy Budd, Sailor and Other Uncompleted Writings" allows readers to embark on a journey through Melville's unfinished world and appreciate the brilliance of his storytelling.

What are readers saying?

Herman Melville's collection of writings, "Billy Budd, Sailor and Other Uncompleted Writings," has garnered mixed reviews from readers. The overall consensus highlights the intricate and profound nature of Melville's writing, while acknowledging the incompleteness of some of the stories.

Many readers laud Herman Melville's literary genius and his ability to weave intricate and thought-provoking narratives. They appreciate his profound exploration of human nature and the philosophical themes that permeate his work. Reviewers particularly commend Melville's skill in capturing the essence of the sea and the experiences of sailors, which adds an authentic and immersive element to his stories.

While Melville's writing is widely praised for its depth, some readers express disappointment with the unfinished nature of the stories. They desire more complete narratives and believe that these unfinished writings may not provide the same level of satisfaction as his other renowned work like "Moby-Dick." However, many still value the moments of brilliance within the incomplete writings and cherish the opportunity to delve into Melville's creative process.

Throughout the reviews, a common theme emerges regarding the exploration of morality and the complexities of good and evil. Readers appreciate Melville's knack for creating morally ambiguous characters and situations that challenge conventional notions of right and wrong. They applaud the thought-provoking storytelling and the way Melville encourages readers to reevaluate their own beliefs and assumptions.

Some readers find that the inclusion of Melville's unfinished writings adds to the overall reading experience by offering insights into his creative mind and the evolution of his ideas. They perceive these incomplete works as a captivating glimpse into the writing process and relish the chance to delve deeper into the mind of this esteemed author.

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