Look Back in Anger: Mother-Daughter and Father-Daughter Relationships in Women's Autobiographical Writings of the 1970s and 1980s : Book Review

"Look Back in Anger" by Norgard Klages is a captivating and emotionally-charged novel that intricately examines the dynamics of human relationships. Taking place in post-war London, the narrative revolves around Jimmy Porter, a disillusioned and enraged young man who grapples with his role in society. Klages skillfully explores themes of love, social class, and the profound impact of war on individuals' lives. Through its raw and realistic portrayal of the characters' social and emotional turmoil, the novel presents readers with a thought-provoking and engaging read.

At the heart of the story lies Jimmy, a character consumed by frustration and discontentment with the world around him. Klages portrays Jimmy's anger with vivid intensity, allowing readers to empathize with his struggles while also questioning the root of his bitterness. Through Jimmy's interactions with his wife, Alison, and his loyal friend, Cliff, the novel delves into the complexities of love and marriage, as well as the detrimental effects of Jimmy's anger on those closest to him.

Additionally, "Look Back in Anger" adeptly explores themes of social inequality and class struggle. Klages effectively highlights the stark contrasts between Jimmy's working-class background and Alison's privileged upbringing, creating constant tension in their relationship. The novel provokes essential inquiries into the influences of societal norms and expectations on one's happiness and fulfillment.

The novel's strength lies in Klages' poignant and evocative writing style. The language is rich and descriptive, painting a vivid backdrop for the narrative. The author skillfully depicts the emotional depth and complexities of the characters, eliciting a profound connection between readers and their journeys.

In conclusion, "Look Back in Anger" is a compelling and insightful novel that deftly explores themes of love, anger, and societal expectations. Norgard Klages' masterful storytelling and well-drawn characters create an emotionally-charged reading experience that lingers long after the final page. This book comes highly recommended for those seeking a thought-provoking and impactful literary work.

What are readers saying?

"Look Back in Anger" by Norgard Klages has sparked a range of opinions among readers. Some praised the book for its deep exploration of emotions and introspective writing, while others struggled to connect with its heavy and introspective nature.

Many reviewers commended the thought-provoking content and the way Klages delved into complex emotions. They found the writing to be raw and honest, allowing them to deeply understand the inner lives of the characters. The realistic and unapologetic approach to portraying anger and its consequences resonated with these readers.

On the other hand, some reviewers failed to form a strong connection with the characters and their experiences. They felt that the book focused too much on introspection and lacked an engaging plot. As a result, they found it difficult to maintain interest and felt disconnected from the narrative.

Opinions on the prose of "Look Back in Anger" were diverse. While some appreciated Klages' descriptive and atmospheric writing, others found it excessively dense and hard to follow. There was a divide on whether the writing style enhanced or hindered the storytelling.

The pacing of the book was another point of contention. Some readers felt that the slow and contemplative pace suited the introspective nature of the story, while others found it dragged on and made the reading experience tedious.

LookBackinAnger ClassicLiterature BritishDrama