Correction by Thomas Bernhard is a remarkable novel that skillfully combines dark humor and introspection to explore themes of isolation, obsession, and the human condition. Set in Austria, the story revolves around the protagonist, Roithamer, a brilliant yet mentally unstable scientist. As he reflects on his life, Roithamer becomes obsessed with a project to build a perfect cone in a remote location. Through his stream-of-consciousness narration, Bernhard delves deep into the complexities of the human mind, challenging our understanding of reality and truth.
Bernhard's distinctive writing style, characterized by long, uninterrupted paragraphs and minimal dialogue, immerses readers in Roithamer's psyche. This narrative technique allows us to experience his internal struggles and obsessive thoughts firsthand. As the story unfolds, we gain insight into Roithamer's tumultuous relationships, particularly with his sister, whose tragic fate continues to haunt him.
The novel's exploration of isolation and obsession is a prominent theme throughout. Roithamer's insatiable desire to create something perfect and faultless, symbolized by the construction of the cone, mirrors his perception of a flawed and chaotic world. This relentless pursuit drives him to the edge of madness and alienates him from society, highlighting both his isolation and the detrimental effects of his obsession with perfection.
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Correction also offers a scathing critique of Austrian society, particularly its cultural and intellectual elite. Through Roithamer's acerbic observations and biting sarcasm, Bernhard exposes the hypocrisy and pretentiousness of those in positions of power. The author sheds light on the oppressive nature of societal norms and expectations, boldly commenting on their suffocating impact on individual freedom and expression.
Correction is a novel that requires patience and an appreciation for Bernhard's unique style. Its intricate prose and existential musings offer a profound and thought-provoking reading experience for those willing to delve into its depths. Through its exploration of isolation, obsession, and societal criticism, Correction showcases Thomas Bernhard's literary genius and his ability to plumb the depths of the human psyche.
What are readers saying?
Correction by Thomas Bernhard is a thought-provoking and controversial book that has received mixed reviews from readers. Some admire it for its dark and introspective narrative, while others criticize its challenging and unconventional writing style.
The novel centers around Roithamer, a brilliant yet tormented academic who becomes consumed by his obsession with the Cone, a geometrical structure he deems perfect. As Roithamer's mental health declines, his fixation on correcting the world intensifies, leading to tragic consequences.
Many readers appreciate Bernhard's meticulous attention to detail and his ability to delve deep into the psyche of his characters. They find the philosophical musings and introspections throughout the book captivating and intellectually stimulating. Bernhard's prose skillfully creates a dark and melancholic atmosphere, immersing readers in Roithamer's troubled mind.
However, the challenging nature of Bernhard's writing style proves to be a divisive aspect of the book. Some readers struggle with the extensive use of long, meandering sentences and the absence of traditional paragraph breaks. This unconventional structure can make the reading experience laborious and confusing, leading to frustration and a disconnection from the story.
Furthermore, the nihilistic and pessimistic themes presented throughout the novel may be difficult for some readers to fully embrace. The existential despair and bleak outlook on life depicted in Correction may not resonate with everyone, causing a sense of dissatisfaction and unease.
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