Review of In Search of Achilles
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Pooja Sharmaa
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- Latest Review: In Search of Achilles by Marco van den Berg Scholten
Review of In Search of Achilles
[Following is a volunteer review of "In Search of Achilles" by Marco van den Berg Scholten.]
The book "In Search of Achilles" by Marco van den Berg Scholte seems to explore themes of identity, belonging, and the search for meaning in a changing world. The protagonist, Johan, feels disconnected from the hedonistic culture around him and is on a personal quest to find purpose, much like the Greek hero Achilles. The narrative is introspective and philosophical, reflecting on the protagonist's inner struggles and the contrasts between old-world values and the new capitalist society emerging in post-Communist Europe.
This book beautifully captures a lively evening in Utrecht, characterized by the city's unique charm and bustling energy. The narrative details a search for friends among the busy, scenic canals, leading to a warm, albeit slightly chaotic, gathering. The atmosphere is festive, with laughter, drinks, and music setting the tone. Achilles, anxious and conflicted, struggles to reconcile with his friend. The book also touches on lost dreams, failed ambitions, and the harsh realities of life.
Michiel and Johan are both struggling to navigate the emotional complexities of their partners and guests. Michiel, seeking to calm his wife, is met with suspicion and frustration. The arrival of guests and media heightens the tension, turning the event into a spectacle where everyone feels scrutinized and pressured to perform.
Through Johan’s interactions with old friends, particularly Achilles, the novel delves into themes of friendship, ambition, and the loss of nobility in modern times. It’s a thoughtful, slow-paced journey of self-discovery, wrapped in a critique of contemporary societal shifts. The writing style is reflective and descriptive, making it a contemplative read for those interested in the deeper questions of life and the impact of societal changes on personal identity.
The book "In Search of Achilles" has some drawbacks. The pacing is slow, especially in the early chapters, which might not appeal to readers like me. The story is rich in detail, but sometimes it feels too descriptive, which slows down the plot. The main character's deep thoughts often take over, making the book feel more like an essay than a book.
The secondary characters, though interesting, aren't well developed, which lessens their impact on the story. The dialogue is realistic but feels stiff, making it harder to connect emotionally. These aspects might make the book less engaging for those who prefer a faster narrative. That's why I give it 4 out of 5 stars, but the book's editing is well done and flawless. It will appeal to those who appreciate slow-paced, character-driven stories with a reflective tone.
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In Search of Achilles
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
The book "In Search of Achilles" by Marco van den Berg Scholte seems to explore themes of identity, belonging, and the search for meaning in a changing world. The protagonist, Johan, feels disconnected from the hedonistic culture around him and is on a personal quest to find purpose, much like the Greek hero Achilles. The narrative is introspective and philosophical, reflecting on the protagonist's inner struggles and the contrasts between old-world values and the new capitalist society emerging in post-Communist Europe.
This book beautifully captures a lively evening in Utrecht, characterized by the city's unique charm and bustling energy. The narrative details a search for friends among the busy, scenic canals, leading to a warm, albeit slightly chaotic, gathering. The atmosphere is festive, with laughter, drinks, and music setting the tone. Achilles, anxious and conflicted, struggles to reconcile with his friend. The book also touches on lost dreams, failed ambitions, and the harsh realities of life.
Michiel and Johan are both struggling to navigate the emotional complexities of their partners and guests. Michiel, seeking to calm his wife, is met with suspicion and frustration. The arrival of guests and media heightens the tension, turning the event into a spectacle where everyone feels scrutinized and pressured to perform.
Through Johan’s interactions with old friends, particularly Achilles, the novel delves into themes of friendship, ambition, and the loss of nobility in modern times. It’s a thoughtful, slow-paced journey of self-discovery, wrapped in a critique of contemporary societal shifts. The writing style is reflective and descriptive, making it a contemplative read for those interested in the deeper questions of life and the impact of societal changes on personal identity.
The book "In Search of Achilles" has some drawbacks. The pacing is slow, especially in the early chapters, which might not appeal to readers like me. The story is rich in detail, but sometimes it feels too descriptive, which slows down the plot. The main character's deep thoughts often take over, making the book feel more like an essay than a book.
The secondary characters, though interesting, aren't well developed, which lessens their impact on the story. The dialogue is realistic but feels stiff, making it harder to connect emotionally. These aspects might make the book less engaging for those who prefer a faster narrative. That's why I give it 4 out of 5 stars, but the book's editing is well done and flawless. It will appeal to those who appreciate slow-paced, character-driven stories with a reflective tone.
******
In Search of Achilles
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Latest Review: In Search of Achilles by Marco van den Berg Scholten
