West of Rome : Book Review

"West of Rome" by John Fante is a compelling collection of two novellas that delve into the complexities of life in Los Angeles. Through vivid storytelling, Fante explores themes of identity, purpose, and the dark underbelly of the city.

The first novella, "My Dog Stupid," revolves around Henry Molise, a struggling screenwriter whose life takes an unexpected turn when he brings home a large German Shepherd. As Henry's obsession with the dog grows, so does his frustration with his own failures. Fante skillfully delves into Henry's thoughts and desires, offering a poignant exploration of the human condition.

In the second novella, "The Orgy," readers are introduced to Arturo Bandini, an eccentric artist captivated by the disappearance of a dwarf actress. As Arturo dives deeper into the case, he becomes entangled in a world of seedy nightclubs and dangerous encounters. Fante's descriptive prose immerses readers in the atmospheric landscape of Los Angeles, as Arturo's adventures unfold against the backdrop of glitz and glamour, juxtaposed with despair and disillusionment.

Fante's writing in "West of Rome" is a masterful blend of raw emotion and dark humor. His characters are complex and flawed, allowing readers to engage with their struggles and motivations. Through their stories, Fante presents an authentic and powerful portrayal of human nature.

One of the notable strengths of the collection is Fante's ability to capture the essence of Los Angeles. The city itself becomes a character, with all its contradictions and allure. Fante's love-hate relationship with Los Angeles is palpable, drawing readers into the vibrant, yet deeply flawed world he has created.

What are readers saying?

The book "West of Rome" by John Fante garnered a mixed reception from its readers. Comprised of two novellas titled "My Dog Stupid" and "The Orgy," the novel left readers divided in their opinions. Some readers were impressed by Fante's writing style, finding it raw, honest, and emotionally impactful. They appreciated his exploration of the struggles faced by ordinary individuals in their daily lives. Fante's adeptness at delving into the complexities of human relationships, along with his authentic dialogue, resonated with these readers.

However, there were others who were less enamored by "West of Rome." They found the storytelling to be disjointed and lacking a clear structure. The novellas were perceived by some as lacking a cohesive plot, resulting in underdeveloped characters. Consequently, these readers struggled to establish a connection with the narratives and were left unaffected by them.

Nonetheless, both groups of readers agreed on one aspect: the engaging and unique writing style of John Fante. His ability to employ descriptive language and vivid imagery was widely applauded. Readers praised his talent for evoking a strong sense of place and effectively painting a vivid picture of the settings.

In summary, "West of Rome" by John Fante evokes a range of opinions from its readers. While some were captivated by the emotional depth and rawness of the stories, others were left underwhelmed by the lack of plot and character development. Nevertheless, Fante's distinctive writing style garnered widespread acclaim, making this book a worthwhile choice for readers who appreciate literary works that delve into the complexities of human relationships.