The Rosy Crucifixion: Sexus, Plexus, Nexus : Book Review

The Rosy Crucifixion is a captivating trilogy written by Henry Miller, that offers readers a semi-autobiographical insight into the life and mind of the protagonist, Henry V. Miller. Comprised of three novels – Sexus, Plexus, and Nexus – the trilogy takes place against the backdrop of New York City and Paris during the early 20th century.

Sexus, the first installment, thrusts readers into the gritty reality of Miller's early experiences in New York City. With vivid descriptions, he portrays the harshness of his surroundings and delves into his complex relationships with women. Love, sexuality, and the pursuit of artistic fulfillment become the main themes as Miller navigates the tumultuous journey of self-discovery.

In Plexus, Miller transports readers to the bohemian lifestyle of Paris. Immersed in a world of struggling artists and intellectuals, Miller explores deeper aspects of his sexuality, philosophy, and the meaning of life. With raw honesty, he delves into his inner thoughts and struggles, offering readers a candid portrayal of his journey towards self-actualization.

Concluding the trilogy, Nexus takes readers on a reflective journey as Miller looks back on his experiences in both New York City and Paris. Love, passion, and the pursuit of personal freedom are explored as Miller engages in introspective musings and philosophical discussions. Through his distinctive prose, readers are granted a more profound understanding of Miller's literary and personal growth.

The Rosy Crucifixion trilogy is an introspective and engrossing masterpiece, providing readers with a glimpse into the fascinating world of Henry Miller. Miller's ability to blend raw honesty with vivid descriptions and profound themes creates a captivating reading experience. This trilogy is a must-read for both fans of Miller's work and those interested in the exploration of sexuality, existentialism, and the complexities of the human condition.

What are readers saying?

"The Rosy Crucifixion," penned by Henry Miller, has garnered a range of reviews from readers. Opinions on the book vary, with some finding it captivating and thought-provoking, while others feel it may be too intense or explicit for their liking. Overall, reviewers highlight Miller's raw and honest writing style, but opinions on content and themes differ.

Many readers praise Miller's ability to create vivid and immersive descriptions of characters and settings in "The Rosy Crucifixion." They find his writing powerful and evocative, bringing the story to life in a visceral manner. Some particularly enjoy the intimate and honest portrayal of the protagonist's personal struggles, finding it both compelling and relatable.

However, some readers express discomfort with the explicit sexual content and language in the book. They feel it is excessive and gratuitous, making it difficult to fully engage with the story. Such readers believe that the explicit nature overshadows the book's merits and limits its potential for a wider audience.

A few reviewers also comment on the book's length, finding it too long and slow-paced. They believe the story could have been condensed without losing its impact. Nevertheless, others appreciate the detailed and meandering narrative, as it allows for a deeper exploration of the protagonist's psyche and the book's themes.

The themes explored in "The Rosy Crucifixion," including sexuality, love, and existentialism, provoke differing responses from readers. Some find these themes thought-provoking and engaging, while others feel the book lacks focus or direction. Misogyny within the book is also noted by some reviewers, raising concerns about its portrayal of women.

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