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saraaaa's review against another edition
challenging
dark
informative
mysterious
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
A rich and complex short novel, I'd say equally informative and adventurous.
It touches some delicate issues – namely, black slavery in South America, and the extents to which violence is justifiable – that would require some historical and theoretical background to be understood fully.
Plot-wise, it's well executed, and a pleasure to read – I personally love the complexity of Melville's style.
However, it felt like a much lengthier and time-consuming read than it should've been, for the ultra-specialised nautical terminology that repeatedly required me to stop and check out the various meanings.
It touches some delicate issues – namely, black slavery in South America, and the extents to which violence is justifiable – that would require some historical and theoretical background to be understood fully.
Plot-wise, it's well executed, and a pleasure to read – I personally love the complexity of Melville's style.
However, it felt like a much lengthier and time-consuming read than it should've been, for the ultra-specialised nautical terminology that repeatedly required me to stop and check out the various meanings.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racial slurs, Slavery, Violence, Racism, Death, Deportation, Emotional abuse, and Mental illness
Minor: Cannibalism
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