Permanent Midnight : Book Review

"Permanent Midnight" by Jerry Stahl is a gripping and visceral memoir that takes readers on a harrowing journey through addiction and the seedy underbelly of Hollywood. Stahl's unapologetic and raw account of his drug use and its devastating consequences is both shocking and compelling.

The book delves deep into the dark world of addiction, highlighting Stahl's insatiable craving for drugs that leads him down a treacherous path of desperation and self-destruction. From his initial experimentation to his eventual spiral into heroin addiction, Stahl leaves no stone unturned in his exploration of his tumultuous relationship with substances.

Stahl's writing style is captivating and immersive, as he vividly depicts the highs and lows of his addiction. His dark humor and self-deprecating wit add layers of complexity to the narrative, making it an engaging and sometimes unsettling read. There is no doubt that Stahl is a skilled storyteller, fearlessly exposing his vulnerabilities and flaws to his readers.

One of the most remarkable aspects of "Permanent Midnight" is Stahl's ability to expose the glamorous and superficial side of Hollywood while simultaneously revealing its dark underbelly. Through his personal experiences working on successful TV shows, Stahl unveils how the pressure and allure of success can contribute to addiction and ultimately lead to downfall.

Overall, "Permanent Midnight" is a haunting and brutally honest memoir that provides an intimate glimpse into the world of addiction. Stahl's unflinching honesty and compelling storytelling make this book an unforgettable read for anyone interested in the dark side of Hollywood and the devastating impact of addiction on one's life.

What are readers saying?

Jerry Stahl's book "Permanent Midnight" has received a mixed response from readers. The reviews offer a balanced view, highlighting both positive and negative opinions about the book.

Many readers admire Stahl's raw and candid writing style, which effectively portrays addiction and the dark side of Hollywood. They appreciate his ability to vividly depict his personal struggles with drug abuse and the profound impact it had on his life. Readers find the unfiltered honesty of the book refreshing, as it offers insight into the author's mind during his lowest moments.

However, there are some readers who find the book too explicit and disturbing. They caution potential readers about the graphic content, which includes detailed descriptions of drug use and sexual acts. While these readers acknowledge that the book authentically portrays addiction, they warn that it can be overwhelming and uncomfortable for some.

Opinions on the narrative structure of "Permanent Midnight" are also mixed. Many readers appreciate the non-linear storytelling, as it mirrors the chaotic nature of addiction itself. They find this format effective in showcasing Stahl's mindset and the disarray of his life during those times. On the other hand, some readers struggle with this nontraditional structure, finding it confusing and disjointed.

The pacing of the book also garners varied opinions. Some readers feel that Stahl's storytelling is gripping and keeps them engaged from beginning to end. They applaud the book's ability to maintain their attention throughout. However, there are others who find the pacing uneven, with certain sections feeling slow or repetitive.

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