Figures Of Madness In Saul Bellow's Longer Fiction : Book Review

"Figures of Madness: In Saul Bellow's Longer Fiction" by Walter Bigler provides an in-depth exploration of the psychological themes and characters in Saul Bellow's longer fiction works. Bigler delves deep into Bellow's writing, uncovering the complexities and nuances of the characters' minds and offering insightful interpretations of their psychological struggles.

The book begins by examining the recurring motif of madness in Bellow's longer fiction. Bigler highlights the various forms of madness portrayed by Bellow, ranging from neuroses to obsessions, and explores the profound impact these states of mind have on the characters' lives. Drawing on examples from novels such as "Herzog" and "Humboldt's Gift," Bigler provides a meticulous analysis of the characters' psychological states.

One of the notable strengths of "Figures of Madness" lies in Bigler's thorough examination of the characters themselves. He dissects their thoughts, emotions, and actions, providing a deeper understanding of their motivations and inner turmoil. By delving into the characters' minds, Bigler uncovers the underlying causes of their madness and explores how it shapes their interactions. Additionally, he draws connections between Bellow's personal experiences and the portrayal of these characters, adding another layer of insight to his analysis.

Another intriguing aspect of the book is Bigler's contextualization of Bellow's work within the broader literary canon. He explores Bellow's influence on psychological literature and discusses how his writing revolutionized the portrayal of madness in literature. This contextualization adds depth to the study, allowing readers to appreciate Bellow's contributions to the exploration of human psychology in literature.

Overall, "Figures of Madness: In Saul Bellow's Longer Fiction" offers a thought-provoking and comprehensive analysis of the psychological themes found in Bellow's longer fiction works. Bigler's meticulous examination of the characters' minds, insightful interpretations, and contextualization within the literary canon make this book a valuable resource for both Bellow enthusiasts and those interested in the portrayal of madness in literature.

What are readers saying?

"Figures of Madness in Saul Bellow's Longer Fiction" by Walter Bigler delves into an exploration of madness in the renowned author's works. The book has received mostly positive reviews, with readers praising Bigler's detailed analysis and scholarly insights.

Reviewers appreciate Bigler's meticulous research and thorough examination of Bellow's writings. They find his unraveling of the complexities of Bellow's characters and their struggles with mental health to be valuable. The book is seen as a valuable resource for understanding the portrayal of madness in Bellow's longer fiction.

The organization and structure of the book are also praised by reviewers. Bigler's writing style is clear and engaging, making it accessible to both scholars and general readers. The thoughtful layout of the chapters helps readers comprehend the complex themes discussed.

Readers also appreciate how the book sheds light on the cultural and historical context in which Bellow's works were written. Bigler's analysis of the societal influences on mental health and the portrayal of madness in Bellow's novels is considered enlightening and thought-provoking.

The extensive bibliography provided by the author is mentioned in several reviews as a valuable resource for further exploration of the topic. This aspect makes the book not only a comprehensive analysis but also a helpful guide for further research.

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