"Cosmopolis" by Don DeLillo is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that takes readers on a mesmerizing journey through the mind of an egotistical billionaire. The story unfolds in a single day, following the wealthy asset manager Eric Packer as he navigates the congested streets of Manhattan in his state-of-the-art limousine. As Packer encounters various individuals and events, his world begins to unravel, leading to unforeseen consequences.
DeLillo's writing style is both captivating and immersive, drawing readers into the detached and disconnected mindset of the protagonist. Through his stream-of-consciousness narrative, the author delves deep into themes of greed, power, technology, and existential crises. The use of highly stylized prose adds an element of surrealism and unease, making it an engrossing and thought-provoking read.
The character development in "Cosmopolis" is intricate and intense. While Packer may not be a likable character, DeLillo explores his psyche, revealing his inner struggles and desires. The interactions between Packer and the diverse array of individuals he encounters throughout the day shed light on the dynamics of power and privilege.
Available on Audible
One of the novel's most compelling aspects is its exploration of the impact of modern technology on society. DeLillo paints a picture of a world where technology has become all-encompassing, leading to constant connectivity yet profound isolation. This critique raises pertinent questions about the consequences of our hyper-connected and technology-driven culture.
In conclusion, "Cosmopolis" is a complex and intellectually stimulating novel that delves deep into the unsettling depths of the human psyche. DeLillo's vivid prose and exploration of contemporary issues make this book an enthralling read for those interested in examining the intersection of power, privilege, and technology in today's society.
What are readers saying?
"Cosmopolis" by Don DeLillo has been a divisive novel among readers on Goodreads, receiving mixed reviews. The book follows Eric Packer, a billionaire asset manager, as he spends a day in his luxurious limousine exploring New York City. Here is a summary of the reviews for "Cosmopolis":
Some readers praise DeLillo's writing style, admiring his ability to create vivid and thought-provoking descriptions of the city and its characters. They find his prose mesmerizing and poetic, appreciating the book's exploration of capitalism and wealth, which they consider both timely and insightful.
On the other hand, some readers struggle with the novel, finding it pretentious and difficult to follow. They have difficulty comprehending the dense and abstract prose, and they feel that the book lacks a coherent plot and interesting characters, making it hard to connect with emotionally.
Another common critique of "Cosmopolis" is the unrealistic and artificial dialogue between characters. Some reviewers find it lacking the natural flow and authenticity they expect from a novel, which hampers their overall enjoyment and engagement with the story.
Several readers express disappointment with the ending of "Cosmopolis." They feel that it ends abruptly, leaving loose ends unresolved and a lack of satisfaction. They had hoped for a more conclusive and satisfying conclusion that tied up the various narrative threads.
Cosmopolis Bookworm ReadingList