Reviews

Native Realm: A Search for Self-Definition by Czesław Miłosz

gemmii's review against another edition

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challenging informative reflective slow-paced

4.0

sarapalooza's review

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4.0

Native Realm
Czeslaw Miłosz

There are many wonders of second-hand books. For instance, this copy of “Native Realm” came with a 1999 bookmark from Borders (may it rest well) hidden in the pages.

My history with Miłosz is a strange one. I ordered a collection of his several years ago and enjoyed reading some of it, but I was waylaid and didn’t finish (also his work is pretty heady and complex, but enough whining).

I came across this autobiography of sorts, read very positive reviews and thought this would be a good way to return to the world of his work.

What a rich and heavy read. Milosz is certainly one who doesn’t shy away from complexities and contradictions. In this book he wrestles with philosophy, religion, a person’s place in their own epoch, nationality, politics, and just about every topic one avoids at dinner with new acquaintances. He is honest and direct and gives the reader a real window into the 90+ years he lived in Europe and abroad.

julievanloon's review

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challenging emotional informative reflective sad tense slow-paced

3.5

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