Candy : Book Review

"Candy" is a satirical novel penned by Terry Southern and Mason Hoffenberg that offers a sharp and witty commentary on society's fixation with sex and the sexual revolution of the 1960s. The story revolves around a young and innocent girl named Candy Christian, who inadvertently becomes the object of desire for a multitude of men.

The authors masterfully employ clever wordplay, innuendos, and outrageous scenarios throughout the novel, making it an incredibly entertaining and hilarious read. Southern and Hoffenberg's writing style is engaging and immersive, captivating readers right from the start. Their use of irony and satire effectively challenges societal norms and sheds light on the era's sexual revolution.

At the center of it all is Candy, a symbol of purity and naivety in a world consumed by lust. The authors explore themes of innocence, desire, and the corrupting influence of society through her character. Candy's obliviousness to the true intentions of those around her creates a stark contrast between her untainted perspective and the debauchery that surrounds her.

While "Candy" is a thought-provoking and humorous novel, it does push the boundaries of acceptability in literature. The explicit content and sexual themes may make some readers uncomfortable or find it offensive. However, it is important to note that the novel's underlying satire provides a deeper meaning and serves as a critique of society's obsession with sex, power, and control.

Overall, "Candy" is an engaging and provocative novel that challenges societal norms and offers a satirical take on the sexual revolution of the 1960s. The authors' storytelling abilities shine through their sharp and clever writing, and the characters they create are both amusing and carefully constructed. Despite its controversial nature, "Candy" stands as an important work of satire and as a testament to Southern and Hoffenberg's writing prowess.

What are readers saying?

Terry Southern's novel "Candy" has elicited a range of opinions from readers. Published in 1958, the book takes a satirical approach and follows the sexual adventures of the main character, Candy. Here is a summary of the feedback received:

1. Many readers praised Southern's satirical style, considering it a standout aspect of the book. They found the writing clever and witty, with a keen commentary on societal norms and sexual taboos. These readers admired Southern's ability to address controversial subjects with humor and irony, which made for an engaging reading experience.

2. However, some readers found the book excessively explicit and disturbing. They felt that the sexual content overshadowed the satire and hindered appreciation of the underlying message. These readers considered the book to be vulgar and shocking, raising questions about its literary value.

3. Some readers enjoyed the character development in "Candy," particularly the protagonist's transformation. They viewed Candy as a complex and intriguing character, evolving from innocence to confidence and sexual liberation. These readers valued the depth of Candy's journey and its contribution to the overall narrative.

4. On the other hand, a number of readers felt that the characters lacked depth and were portrayed as mere caricatures. They perceived the characters as one-dimensional and lacking in complexity, which hindered their ability to connect with the story. These readers expressed a desire for more nuanced and developed characters.

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