Schweres Wasser und andere Erzählungen : Book Review

"Schweres Wasser und andere Erzählungen" by Martin Amis is a captivating collection of short stories that highlights Amis's extraordinary talent for storytelling and his exceptional command of language. Each story explores different themes and aspects of human nature with a blend of wit, humor, and irony.

The book opens with the title story, "Schweres Wasser," which is set during World War II and follows a group of Norwegian resistance fighters on their daring mission to sabotage a German heavy water plant. The story is filled with suspense and tension, emphasizing the courage and sacrifices of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances.

"State of England" presents a satirical depiction of the decline of British society. It paints a dystopian near-future where celebrities and reality TV dominate the cultural landscape, while traditional values and institutions crumble. Amis cleverly weaves dark humor and social commentary into this tale.

One standout story is "Insight at FL205," which takes readers on a turbulent and psychedelic journey through the mind of a troubled airplane passenger. Amis skillfully explores the complexities of the human psyche, blurring the line between reality and hallucination to reveal the protagonist's deepest fears and desires.

The collection also includes shorter, yet impactful stories. "Let Me Count the Times" tells a tale of everlasting love, while "Making Sense of the World" delves into the unsettling world of obsession. In each of these stories, Amis captures the core of human relationships and emotions with precision and depth.

What are readers saying?

"Schweres Wasser und andere Erzählungen" is a compilation of short stories penned by Martin Amis, titled after the eponymous story. The response from readers regarding this collection has been mixed, with varying opinions expressed.

Some readers laud Amis for his skill in capturing intricate emotions and crafting memorable characters. They appreciate the depth and richness of the stories, often hailing the author's wit and cleverness. What stands out to these readers is how the stories explore themes such as love, relationships, and the human condition, resulting in engaging narratives that resonate with readers on a personal level.

However, there are readers who found the book disappointing. They feel that the stories lack a cohesive narrative and come across as disjointed. These readers struggle to connect with the characters and yearn for more from these stories. Furthermore, a few reviewers remark on the challenges posed by the dark and somber subject matter of some tales, making it a difficult read for them.

Several readers do highlight specific stories within the collection that they enjoyed. The title story, "Schweres Wasser," garners particular praise for its historical backdrop and the way it integrates scientific elements with personal narratives. Other highly acclaimed stories include "Straight Fiction" and "Career Move," known for their humor and satire, showcasing Amis's sharp wit.

In summary, "Schweres Wasser und andere Erzählungen" evokes mixed reactions from readers. While some appreciate Amis's writing style and the intricate nature of his stories, others find the collection lacking coherence and fail to connect with the characters. However, for those seeking thought-provoking and occasionally darkly humorous tales, this collection may still be worth exploring.

SchweresWasser Erzählungen Bücher