Novels 1936–1940: Absalom, Absalom! / The Unvanquished / If I Forget Thee, Jerusalem / The Hamlet : Book Review

The Novels 1936-1940 is a captivating compilation of four remarkable novels crafted by the acclaimed wordsmith, William Faulkner. Within this collection, readers will embark upon a literary journey enriched by Faulkner's distinctive style, which skillfully weaves together themes of Southern history, familial dynamics, and the complexities of the human condition.

Absalom, Absalom! stands as a testament to Faulkner's literary genius. This introspective and intricate tale delves deep into the haunting story of the Sutpen family and their dramatic rise and fall in the South. Faulkner's use of multiple perspectives and a non-linear narrative brilliantly unveils the layers of race, class, and morality that afflict the characters. The novel is celebrated for its lush language, compelling storytelling, and its profound exploration of the enduring impact of the past.

In a departure from his customary style, The Unvanquished presents a linear narrative that follows young Bayard Sartoris during the tumultuous Civil War and its aftermath. Through Bayard's eyes, Faulkner deftly examines themes of honor, loyalty, and the consequences of war. The novel's vivid descriptions and evocative portrayal of this turbulent period in American history render it a compelling read.

If I Forget Thee, Jerusalem is a poignant tale of love and tragedy set in Faulkner's beloved Yoknapatawpha County. At its heart lies the intricate romantic relationship between Harry Wilbourne and Charlotte Rittenmeyer, as they grapple with personal demons. Faulkner's exquisite prose and exploration of the complexities of love and redemption breathe life into this captivating novel.

Completing the collection, The Hamlet serves as the inaugural installment of Faulkner's Snopes trilogy. It unveils the ascent of the cunning and ruthless Snopes family, exposing the corruption and greed that permeate society through this gripping family saga. The Hamlet provokes deep contemplation on power, ambition, and the darker facets of human nature.

What are readers saying?

The novels written by William Faulkner between 1936 and 1940 have garnered a range of opinions from readers. Some individuals laud Faulkner's distinctive storytelling style and his ability to delve into complex themes, while others struggle to follow his writing style and find the narratives perplexing.

One reviewer commends Faulkner for his skill in creating vivid and captivating characters, noting that each individual in the novels is intricately developed. The author's exploration of profound human emotions and the intricate web of relationships is also appreciated. Additionally, the use of multiple narrative perspectives is praised for its effectiveness in bringing the stories to life.

However, some readers find Faulkner's writing style to be excessively intricate and dense, which hampers their understanding of the narratives and themes. They mention that the constant shifts in time and perspective can be perplexing and hinder their enjoyment of the books. The unconventional structure and heavy use of stream-of-consciousness writing are also cited as barriers to comprehension.

Notwithstanding the challenging nature of Faulkner's writing, many reviewers recognize the significance and brilliance of his work. They appreciate the depth and complexity of the themes he addresses, such as racism, identity, and the human condition. Faulkner's exploration of the Southern Gothic genre and his ability to capture the essence of the American South during this time period are also highlighted as notable strengths of his writing.

In summary, the reviews for Novels 1936-1940 by William Faulkner encompass a mixture of admiration and criticism. While some readers appreciate his unique storytelling style, complex characters, and exploration of profound themes, others find his writing dense and confusing. Overall, Faulkner's work is considered important and thought-provoking, albeit challenging to fully grasp for some readers.

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