The Novels of Robbe-Grillet : Book Review

In his book titled "The Novels of Robbe-Grillet," Bruce Morrissette provides readers with a thorough and insightful analysis of the works of Alain Robbe-Grillet. Robbe-Grillet was a prominent figure in the literary movement known as the "nouveau roman" or "new novel," and Morrissette's book delves into the various elements that make up his literary contributions.

One of the standout strengths of Morrissette's book is its meticulous attention to detail. The author carefully dissects Robbe-Grillet's novels, bringing attention to recurring themes such as urban landscapes, film-inspired storytelling, and the deconstruction of traditional narrative conventions. This deep exploration offers readers a comprehensive understanding of Robbe-Grillet's body of work, exposing the subtleties and complexities that lie beneath the surface.

Another valuable aspect of Morrissette's analysis is its examination of the influence of Robbe-Grillet's background in mathematics and interest in structuralism on his writing style. By exploring the intricate relationship between form and content in Robbe-Grillet's novels, Morrissette reveals the author's deliberate use of language and innovative storytelling techniques. This adds a new layer of appreciation for Robbe-Grillet's works and their contribution to the literary world.

Furthermore, Morrissette's book provides a comprehensive overview of Robbe-Grillet's development as a writer, from his earlier works like "The Erasers" to his later novels such as "Project for a Revolution in New York." This chronological exploration allows readers to trace the evolution of Robbe-Grillet's ideas and techniques, providing a deeper understanding of the context in which his works were created.

Overall, Bruce Morrissette's "The Novels of Robbe-Grillet" is a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts of Robbe-Grillet's works alike. The book's meticulous analysis, attention to detail, and comprehensive exploration of Robbe-Grillet's literary career make it an essential guide to understanding and appreciating the contributions of this influential author to the world of literature.

What are readers saying?

Bruce Morrissette's book, "The Novels of Robbe-Grillet," has garnered a mixed reception from readers. Some have lauded its comprehensive analysis and insightful commentary on the works of Alain Robbe-Grillet, while others have criticized its density and difficulty of comprehension.

Many readers have commended Morrissette for his profound examination of Robbe-Grillet's novels. They value the book's meticulous analysis of the author's themes, style, and narrative techniques. These readers find Morrissette's insights to be illuminating, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of Robbe-Grillet's literary contributions.

However, some reviewers have taken issue with Morrissette's writing style, describing it as convoluted and excessively academia-centric. They contend that the book is challenging to read and comprehend, particularly for those unfamiliar with literary theory or Robbe-Grillet's works. These readers feel that Morrissette's analysis often leans towards the abstract, making it difficult to connect with the material on a personal level.

Furthermore, a few reviewers have expressed disappointment with the book's perceived outdatedness and insufficient incorporation of recent scholarship on Robbe-Grillet's works. They note that Morrissette's analysis primarily focuses on the earlier novels and neglects to provide a comprehensive overview of the author's entire body of work, especially the later period of his career.

On a more positive note, several readers have praised the book's extensive bibliography and references. They consider it a valuable resource for further exploration of Robbe-Grillet's writings. Additionally, these readers appreciate the book's well-organized structure, which facilitates easy navigation and efficient searching for specific information.

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