"Time Was Soft There" by Jeremy Mercer is a captivating memoir that takes readers on an enchanting journey through the world of Shakespeare and Company, a renowned English-language bookstore in Paris. In this book, Mercer shares his personal struggles as a writer and his fortuitous encounter with George, the eccentric owner of the bookstore.
Through Mercer's words, the readers are transported into the bohemian atmosphere of Shakespeare and Company, where they meet a community of fellow book enthusiasts, writers, and artists with their own unique stories and idiosyncrasies. Mercer paints a vivid picture of the bookstore and its inhabitants, from the charming eccentricities of George to the legendary Sylvia Beach, who founded the original Shakespeare and Company in the 1920s. The author's poetic prose brings each character to life with warmth and affection.
One of the most delightful aspects of this book is the detailed descriptions of the makeshift beds hidden within the bookstore's shelves, where struggling artists often find respite while working on their craft or contemplating life. These beds symbolize the cozy and welcoming nature of Shakespeare and Company, a sanctuary for lost souls seeking solace in the world of books. Mercer's observations on the bohemian lifestyle and the sense of community within the bookstore's walls add depth to the narrative and evoke a longing for a similar experience.
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As the story unfolds, there is a palpable sense of nostalgia for a bygone era. Mercer skillfully captures the magic and allure of a bookstore that once served as a meeting place for literary giants like Ernest Hemingway and James Joyce. "Time Was Soft There" is not only a personal memoir, but also a celebration of the enduring power of literature and the unique spaces that nurture it. With its blend of personal anecdotes and literary history, this book is a must-read for anyone enchanted by the world of books.
Time Was Soft There, a novel penned by Jeremy Mercer, explores his experience living and working in Shakespeare and Company, a legendary bookstore in Paris. Upon examining the reviews, it is evident that the book has received predominantly positive feedback. Readers have praised the book for its engaging narrative, vibrant descriptions of the literary ambiance, and the heartfelt portrayal of the unique community within the bookstore.
Many reviewers have expressed their admiration for Jeremy Mercer's storytelling abilities, noting his successful capture of the bookstore's charm and allure. Readers appreciate the author's talent for transporting them to the lively streets of Paris, immersing them in the enchanting world of books and literature. Mercer's writing style, described as lyrical and poetic, has garnered widespread praise for its ability to draw readers into the story, evoking a sense of actually being present in the bookstore alongside the author.
The novel's depiction of the eccentric cast of characters at Shakespeare and Company has also received high praise. Reviewers found themselves charmed by the tales and anecdotes about the diverse group of literary figures, aspiring writers, and book enthusiasts who frequented the store. The book adeptly portrays the tight-knit community that thrived within its walls, fostering a feeling of warmth and nostalgia among readers.
Readers have also appreciated the vivid descriptions of the bookstore itself. Mercer's ability to bring the physical space to life, painting a vibrant picture of cozy nooks, teetering bookshelves, and the intoxicating scent of old books, has captivated readers. The atmospheric setting of the store has left a lasting impression, with many reviewers expressing a desire to either visit or revisit Shakespeare and Company after reading the book.
Though the majority of reviews were positive, a few readers felt that, at times, the narrative became overly descriptive and lacked focus. Some reviewers longed for more in-depth analysis of the bookstore's history and its impact on the literary world. However, these criticisms constituted a minority, as most readers were enthralled by Mercer's heartfelt and passionate account of his time at Shakespeare and Company.
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