The Obelisk Trilogy by Henry Miller is a collection of three bold and provocative autobiographical novels: The Rosy Crucifixion, consisting of Sexus, Plexus, and Nexus. Miller fearlessly takes readers on a journey through his life as a struggling writer, his tumultuous love affairs, and his exploration of art and sexuality in 20th century America.
The first novel, Sexus, introduces Miller's raw and explicit writing style as he delves into his own sexual awakening. He fearlessly shares his encounters and relationships with various women, creating a deeply introspective and captivating read.
In the second novel, Plexus, Miller continues to explore his personal life, delving into complex relationships with friends, lovers, and fellow writers. He reflects on the challenges and triumphs of his artistic pursuits and delves into themes of loneliness, alienation, and the search for meaning. Miller's writing remains vivid and unfiltered, painting a vivid picture of the bohemian lifestyle in 1920s and 1930s Paris.
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The final novel, Nexus, brings Miller's story full circle as he reflects on his past experiences and their impact on his growth as a writer. He engages in introspection and self-reflection, making Nexus a thought-provoking and poignant conclusion to the trilogy.
The Obelisk Trilogy is not for the faint-hearted. Miller's explicit and raw writing style may not appeal to everyone, but those who appreciate honest and unfiltered storytelling will find this collection captivating. Through his exploration of sexuality, art, and personal struggles, Miller challenges societal norms and encourages readers to embrace their authentic selves. It is a provoking and compelling series that invites readers to reflect and question the world around them.
What are readers saying?
Henry Miller's "The Obelisk Trilogy" has garnered a wide range of opinions from readers. Some readers laud Miller's writing style and his knack for exploring intricate themes, while others find the book unengaging and convoluted.
Many readers admire Miller's distinctive writing style, often described as raw and provocative. They appreciate his courage in tackling controversial topics and his astute observations on society, sexuality, and the human condition. These readers find his prose poetic and captivating, painting vivid pictures of the settings and characters.
However, there are also readers who find "The Obelisk Trilogy" excessively explicit and offensive. They believe that Miller's writing lacks subtlety and runs the risk of becoming repetitive. Some readers struggle to connect with the characters, finding them one-dimensional and uninteresting. They also note the absence of a clear plot structure, making it arduous to follow and comprehend.
Another point of contention among readers is the length of the trilogy. Many express frustration with the extensive descriptions and tangents, claiming that they disrupt the overall flow of the story. Some readers perceive the book to be self-indulgent, critiquing Miller for excessively focusing on his own experiences and contemplations, which they believe detract from the narrative.
Despite differing opinions, it is evident that Miller's "The Obelisk Trilogy" elicits strong reactions from readers. Whether one appreciates his audacious writing style and willingness to explore taboo subjects or finds his approach excessive and disjointed, it is undeniable that Miller's work sparks lively discussion and debate among readers.
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