"The Cyclist" by Viken Berberian is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the life of an unnamed protagonist in an unnamed city. From the very beginning, when a cyclist is chased by a driver, the story sets a tone of suspense and intrigue. As the protagonist navigates the chaotic streets of the city on his bicycle, he becomes an astute observer of the city's idiosyncrasies, injustices, and the diverse array of characters he encounters along the way.
Berberian's writing style is both descriptive and vivid, painting a surreal and atmospheric picture of the city. His prose showcases a poetic rawness, skillfully capturing the protagonist's inner thoughts and emotions as well as his interactions with those around him. The pacing of the book mirrors the fast-paced and erratic nature of urban life, ensuring that readers are constantly engaged and on the edge of their seats.
The exploration of themes such as identity, urban isolation, and societal inequality is masterfully executed in "The Cyclist." Berberian delves deep into the psyche of his protagonist, examining how the city and its inhabitants influence his sense of self. Through the protagonist's encounters with a diverse range of individuals, the author shines a light on the prevalent disconnect and alienation in contemporary urban life.
Available on Audible
One of the novel's strengths lies in Berberian's skill in creating rich and complex characters. Each person that the protagonist meets throughout his cycling journey is distinctive and captivating, adding layers of depth to the narrative. From the eccentric artist to the disillusioned politician, the wide array of characters reflects the dynamic and diverse nature of city life.
"The Cyclist" is a powerful and evocative novel that skillfully captures the essence of urban existence through its vivid prose and profound exploration of themes. Berberian's storytelling prowess shines through, making it an incredibly compelling read for anyone interested in thought-provoking literature.
What are readers saying?
"The Cyclist" by Viken Berberian has received a range of reviews, with readers expressing diverse opinions about the book. The novel follows the eccentric journey of a wealthy cyclist as he peddles through various fictional locations. Here is a summary of the different reviews:
Firstly, many readers praised Berberian's unique writing style, describing it as poetic and vivid. They appreciated how the author was able to create a vivid image of the various landscapes through the eyes of the cyclist. The book was also commended for the exploration of philosophical themes, such as identity and self-discovery. For some readers, it proved to be thought-provoking and engaging.
On the other hand, several reviewers felt that "The Cyclist" was too disjointed and lacked a clear plot. They found the narrative confusing and difficult to follow, struggling to connect with the protagonist. Some also felt that the writing style was overly descriptive, resulting in a slow-paced and tedious reading experience. Moreover, some reviewers expressed disappointment at the lack of character development, making it difficult to empathize with the cyclist.
A recurring point in the reviews was Berberian's ability to capture the beauty of the landscapes encountered by the cyclist. The descriptive passages received appreciation, as readers felt transported to the bustling streets of Paris or the remote villages of Armenia. However, some also believed that the focus on scenery overshadowed the development of other crucial aspects of the story.
While some reviewers praised Berberian's experimental approach to storytelling, others found the lack of a cohesive plot challenging to fully engage with the narrative. The unconventional structure, where the observations and musings of the cyclist take precedence, was seen as refreshing by some readers who enjoyed the poetic prose.
TheCyclist BookRecommendation CyclingLife