A review by kapsberger
The Drowned World by J.G. Ballard

2.0

I have to agree with other reviewers after reading this novel in that it's only redeeming feature is it's absolutely stunning descriptive landscaping of a world inundated by water and archaic jungle. So while I might read a couple pages of almost lyrical prose, I also had to deal with the insufferable plot, characters, and dialogue. Copious and unwarranted use of creaky British phrases like "Chap" and "Darling". Some questionable racist material and extensive descriptions of a "voodoo" cult. Makes claims to scientific accuracy, but is woefully bereft of any believable science. The plot pacing made little to no sense, and in the end I have no idea who any of these people are or what their stories are, nor do I care. In short, this would be a painful novel to read if it were not for Ballard's knack for painting a world of despair and decay that does manage to take hold on the readers mind. Most enjoyable when we only see our brave British scientist Kerans heroically stumble through the "phantasmagoria" of this world, less enjoyable when Ballard tries to introduce plot or, god forbid, supporting characters.