"Falling Man" by Don DeLillo is an incredibly powerful and thought-provoking novel that takes a deep dive into the aftermath of the September 11 attacks on the Twin Towers in New York City. At the center of the story is Keith Neudecker, a survivor who finds himself emotionally detached from his family and struggling to come to terms with the trauma he has experienced. Through his beautifully introspective and poetic writing, DeLillo explores themes of identity, memory, and the complexities of the human condition.
One of the most notable aspects of "Falling Man" is DeLillo's unique narrative style. His expertly crafted storytelling weaves together different perspectives, shifting between various characters and time periods. This fragmented narrative mirrors the chaos and disorientation that the characters feel in the aftermath of the attacks, allowing the reader to fully immerse themselves in their world.
The exploration of Keith's struggle with his identity and his attempts to rebuild his connection with his family is truly compelling. DeLillo skillfully captures the profound changes that occur after a tragedy of this magnitude, as Keith grapples with his own mortality and the uncertainty of the future. The strained relationship between Keith and his wife, Lianne, adds further layers of complexity to the narrative, shedding light on the deep ripple effects of trauma on personal relationships.
Available on Audible
DeLillo's prose is breathtakingly lyrical, filled with vivid descriptions and profound philosophical reflections. He seamlessly blends intimate and personal moments with larger social commentary, provoking thought about the very nature of humanity and the profound impact of traumatic events on our lives. Through his masterful writing, DeLillo captures the lingering aftermath of 9/11, creating a haunting and profound reading experience.
In conclusion, "Falling Man" is an extraordinary novel that delves into the emotional aftermath of the September 11 attacks with sensitivity and depth. DeLillo's unique narrative style, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes make this book an absolute must-read for anyone seeking to explore the intricacies of the human psyche in the face of tragedy.
What are readers saying?
"Falling Man" by Don DeLillo is a thought-provoking and evocative novel that delves into the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The book has garnered a wide range of reviews from readers, with opinions largely divided.
Many readers praised DeLillo's powerful writing style and his ability to depict the emotional and psychological impact of the tragedy. They found the book to be a haunting and deeply moving portrayal of the human experience in the face of immense tragedy. The characters were often described as complex and realistic, with their struggles and responses to the events unfolding in a nuanced and authentic manner.
However, some reviewers felt that the non-linear narrative structure and numerous flashbacks made it challenging to fully engage with the story. They found the book to be disjointed and confusing at times, affecting their overall enjoyment and understanding of the plot. Some readers also expressed disappointment with the lack of clear resolution or closure.
The themes of grief, loss, and the search for meaning in the wake of disaster resonated strongly with many readers. They appreciated how DeLillo explored the psychological trauma experienced not only by the characters directly affected by the attacks but also by those indirectly impacted. The author's ability to capture the collective consciousness of a nation deeply affected by the tragedy was also commended.
However, few readers felt that the book lacked urgency or a strong narrative drive. They found the pacing to be slow and desired more action or plot development. Some reviewers also noted that the political and philosophical themes explored in the novel were not fully fleshed out, leaving them wanting more depth and exploration.
FallingMan SurvivingTrauma Post911