"Money" by Martin Amis is a satirical novel that offers a compelling exploration of the excesses and greed prevalent in the 1980s. The story revolves around the life of the film director, John Self, whose singular obsession with money, fame, and instant gratification drives the narrative. As the plot unfolds, the novel delves into themes of consumerism, the shallow celebrity culture, and the destructive power of wealth.
Amis exhibits a sharp and witty writing style that interweaves dark humor with biting social commentary. The protagonist, John Self, is an incredibly flawed character who serves as a representation of the vices and pitfalls of his era. Although his flaws are evident, there is an odd likability to Self, and his journey through the world of excess exposes the emptiness and superficiality inherent in it.
Throughout the book, Amis masterfully blends various narrative threads, incorporating metafiction and self-referential elements. "Money" not only critiques capitalism but also deconstructs the structure of the novel itself. It challenges readers to question their own desires and priorities, provoking reflection on the nature of wealth and success.
Available on Audible
Amis vividly captures the essence of the 1980s through his portrayal of the era. The novel is populated with larger-than-life characters and outrageous situations, effectively reflecting the extremities and excesses of the time. The fast-paced narrative keeps readers engaged, while Amis's skillfully crafted prose, infused with his signature wit, permeates every page.
In summary, "Money" is a thought-provoking and entertaining novel that delves into the darker side of society's obsession with wealth and fame. Amis's sharp writing style, combined with his satirical tone, makes for a compelling read. His exploration of greed and excess still resonates today, reminding us to reevaluate our own values and aspirations.
What are readers saying?
Martin Amis' novel "Money" received a diverse range of feedback from readers. Some reviewers lauded the book for its dark humor and satirical exploration of the excesses prevalent in the 1980s. They praised Amis' sharp and witty writing style, as well as his ability to vividly depict the chaotic and morally bankrupt world of high finance. Many also appreciated the character development, particularly the intricacies and flaws of the protagonist, John Self. These readers believed that Amis effectively portrayed the self-destructive tendencies of his character, crafting a haunting portrayal of a man consumed by greed.
On the other hand, some reviewers were less enthusiastic about "Money." They expressed frustration with the book's lack of a clear plot and disjointed narrative structure, which made it difficult for them to follow. Additionally, certain readers criticized the excessive use of vulgar language and explicit content, deeming it detrimental to the overall quality of the story. They found the characters to be shallow and unlikable, preventing them from fully engaging with the book.
Several reviewers acknowledged Amis' writing talent but struggled to connect with the materialistic culture heavily emphasized in the novel. They felt that "Money" lacked depth and failed to offer any profound insights or commentary beyond surface-level observations.
All in all, "Money" by Martin Amis received a mixture of positive and negative reviews. While some applauded its dark humor and character development, others criticized its lack of a coherent plot and unlikable characters. Additionally, certain readers found it challenging to connect with the materialistic world depicted in the book. These reviews underscore the polarizing nature of Amis' work and the varied opinions on the effectiveness of his satirical style.