Última salida para Brooklyn : Book Review

"Última salida para Brooklyn" (Last Exit to Brooklyn) is a powerful and gritty novel written by Hubert Selby Jr. It is set in 1950s Brooklyn and delves into the lives of a diverse cast of characters living on the fringes of society. Selby's writing style is vivid and raw, exploring themes of violence, sexuality, and addiction, to create a disturbing and haunting portrait of a particular time and place.

The novel consists of interconnected stories, each centering on a different character or group of characters. Through the violent and tragic life of Harry Black, a union worker turned gang member, and the struggles of Georgette, a young woman working as a prostitute, Selby uncovers the darkest corners of human existence. He fearlessly exposes the brutality and despair that saturate the lives of these individuals, leaving readers both disturbed and captivated.

One notable aspect of the book is Selby's masterful use of language. He provides a vivid and unfiltered portrayal of the characters and their surroundings, creating a visceral reading experience. The prose is raw and unapologetic, reflecting the harsh realities of the characters' lives. This uncompromising approach shocks readers and immerses them in the grim world of Brooklyn.

Selby's exploration of sexuality and identity is particularly poignant in "Última salida para Brooklyn." He delves into the underground world of gay men in the 1950s, shedding light on the discrimination and oppression they faced. Through the character of Tralala, a young woman seeking validation through promiscuity, Selby also highlights the double standards and objectification faced by women. The book compels readers to confront society's biases and prejudices, even within the most marginalized communities.

Despite the bleakness and despair that saturate the novel, there is an underlying sense of humanity and empathy. Selby's characters are flawed and damaged, but they are also real and complex. Through their struggles, he explores universal themes of loneliness, longing, and the search for connection. "Última salida para Brooklyn" is a challenging read that pushes the boundaries of literature, offering a brutally honest portrayal of the darker side of humanity.

What are readers saying?

"Last Exit to Brooklyn" by Hubert Selby Jr. is a thought-provoking and controversial novel that delves into the darker aspects of human nature. The book has garnered mixed reactions among readers, which is reflected in its reviews.

Readers often describe "Last Exit to Brooklyn" as a raw and brutally honest portrayal of life in 1950s Brooklyn. They appreciate Selby's gritty writing style and his ability to bring the characters and their struggles to life. Some reviewers find the book disturbing but acknowledge its significance in shedding light on marginalized communities and the harsh realities they face.

The explicit and graphic nature of the book is a recurring theme in the reviews. Some readers feel that Selby's use of explicit language and content is excessive and gratuitous, hindering their full engagement with the story. However, others argue that these elements are necessary to accurately depict the hardships and desperation experienced by the characters.

Another aspect of the book that generates attention in the reviews is its exploration of controversial themes, such as sexuality, violence, and drug addiction. Some readers commend Selby for his unflinching approach to these topics, as they believe it adds depth and realism to the narrative. However, others find these themes overwhelming and unsettling, leading to mixed feelings about the book as a whole.

Despite the polarizing nature of "Last Exit to Brooklyn," many readers admire Selby's ability to capture the essence of human suffering and despair. They appreciate the emotional depth of the characters and the honesty with which their stories are told. The unapologetic and unfiltered portrayal of the darker aspects of society has left a lasting impression on readers, sparking discussions and debates about the book's merits.

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