Review of Love and Murder
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Aliyya Abdulmalik
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Review of Love and Murder
[Following is a volunteer review of "Love and Murder" by Irv Arenberg.]
Love and Murder by Irv Arenberg delved into the contentious narrative surrounding the life and demise of Vincent Van Gogh, born on March 30, 1853, in Groot-Zundert, Western Holland. Vincent's existence was surrounded by controversy, and the author skillfully transported readers into the past, unravelling the mysteries of Vincent's final seventy days in Auvers-sur-Oise, France. The book posed the question of whether the widely believed suicide of the painter was indeed true or if it could have been a potential homicide.
Right from the beginning, the book emanated intrigue and excitement. The introductory sections adeptly set the stage, introducing possible suspects and intensifying the thrill of a real-life mystery. The author also organized the narrative, with early chapters dedicated to the artist's life, eventually shifting to the focal point: the last seventy days of Vincent. Throughout, the author aimed to persuade readers that the artist met his demise through a gunshot wound inflicted by someone he had once trusted.
I appreciate the captivating narrative style employed by the author in the book. One notable example is the intricate depiction of the complex relationship between Vincent and his doctor. Additionally, the poignant portrayal of the heartbreaking bond between the artist and his ill-fated brother, Theo, was particularly compelling. Another aspect I find appealing is the book's use of simple and easily understandable language and writing form.
Furthermore, Vincent's character stands out as intriguing due to his inner turbulence and restlessness. His life's journey can be characterized as one marked by resilience—the ability to bounce back from failures. The book endeavours to unveil the life of an artist who seems misunderstood, doing so in a vividly descriptive manner. I would recommend this book to readers who have an interest in art history, particularly the life and mysteries surrounding Vincent Van Gogh. The book was exceptionally well-edited and error-free.
One thing I particularly disliked in the story was the perception people had of the artist. When he was alive, there was a noticeable lack of genuine concern for him, and even his mother harboured a desire for his demise. The author attempted to highlight that all the artist sought was love and affection, which tragically eluded him. In the end, he not only passed away in isolation but also fell victim to foul play. Another aspect I found displeasing was the detailed exploration of the artist's life, which became somewhat tedious. The narrative ended up being repetitive and overly extended as the author delved into the intricacies of the artist's experiences.
I gave this book a rating of 4 out of 5 stars. The book's captivating narrative style and exploration of intricate relationships, especially those involving Vincent and his doctor or his brother Theo, add depth to the storytelling. The use of simple language makes it accessible, and Vincent's character, with its turbulence and resilience, contributes to the book's intrigue. However, the negative aspects, like the disheartening portrayal of people's perceptions of the artist and the repetitive nature of the narrative, impact the overall enjoyment. The tragedy surrounding Vincent's lonely demise and the suggestion of foul play introduce a sombre tone. These positive and negative elements balance out, resulting in a rating that reflects the book's engagement but acknowledges its drawbacks.
******
Love and Murder
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Love and Murder by Irv Arenberg delved into the contentious narrative surrounding the life and demise of Vincent Van Gogh, born on March 30, 1853, in Groot-Zundert, Western Holland. Vincent's existence was surrounded by controversy, and the author skillfully transported readers into the past, unravelling the mysteries of Vincent's final seventy days in Auvers-sur-Oise, France. The book posed the question of whether the widely believed suicide of the painter was indeed true or if it could have been a potential homicide.
Right from the beginning, the book emanated intrigue and excitement. The introductory sections adeptly set the stage, introducing possible suspects and intensifying the thrill of a real-life mystery. The author also organized the narrative, with early chapters dedicated to the artist's life, eventually shifting to the focal point: the last seventy days of Vincent. Throughout, the author aimed to persuade readers that the artist met his demise through a gunshot wound inflicted by someone he had once trusted.
I appreciate the captivating narrative style employed by the author in the book. One notable example is the intricate depiction of the complex relationship between Vincent and his doctor. Additionally, the poignant portrayal of the heartbreaking bond between the artist and his ill-fated brother, Theo, was particularly compelling. Another aspect I find appealing is the book's use of simple and easily understandable language and writing form.
Furthermore, Vincent's character stands out as intriguing due to his inner turbulence and restlessness. His life's journey can be characterized as one marked by resilience—the ability to bounce back from failures. The book endeavours to unveil the life of an artist who seems misunderstood, doing so in a vividly descriptive manner. I would recommend this book to readers who have an interest in art history, particularly the life and mysteries surrounding Vincent Van Gogh. The book was exceptionally well-edited and error-free.
One thing I particularly disliked in the story was the perception people had of the artist. When he was alive, there was a noticeable lack of genuine concern for him, and even his mother harboured a desire for his demise. The author attempted to highlight that all the artist sought was love and affection, which tragically eluded him. In the end, he not only passed away in isolation but also fell victim to foul play. Another aspect I found displeasing was the detailed exploration of the artist's life, which became somewhat tedious. The narrative ended up being repetitive and overly extended as the author delved into the intricacies of the artist's experiences.
I gave this book a rating of 4 out of 5 stars. The book's captivating narrative style and exploration of intricate relationships, especially those involving Vincent and his doctor or his brother Theo, add depth to the storytelling. The use of simple language makes it accessible, and Vincent's character, with its turbulence and resilience, contributes to the book's intrigue. However, the negative aspects, like the disheartening portrayal of people's perceptions of the artist and the repetitive nature of the narrative, impact the overall enjoyment. The tragedy surrounding Vincent's lonely demise and the suggestion of foul play introduce a sombre tone. These positive and negative elements balance out, resulting in a rating that reflects the book's engagement but acknowledges its drawbacks.
******
Love and Murder
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
