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A review by joeh
Men in My Situation by Per Petterson
emotional
sad
medium-paced
3.75
In 'Men in my Situation' Petterson paints a lush portrait of the precipice masculinity teeters on when confronting turmoil (though fairly, it's uniquely sad turmoil). This book is very, very sad, but, also, funny, insightful, redundant and rather lovely.
Petterson is a beautiful writer. He illustrates the depth sadness and loss can descend. He articulates how someone can be immobilized, in each facet of their life, by pain, by sadness. The poignance of Arvid's search for companionship in the wake of his divorce is also lovely.
All that said, this story becomes a bit one dimensional at times. I love the aimless car rides but there are so many. The sadness and the pain can become oppressive at times, especially when mixed with the near constant flirtation.
Definitely a solid book. I'm eager to investigate other Petterson offerings.
Petterson is a beautiful writer. He illustrates the depth sadness and loss can descend. He articulates how someone can be immobilized, in each facet of their life, by pain, by sadness. The poignance of Arvid's search for companionship in the wake of his divorce is also lovely.
All that said, this story becomes a bit one dimensional at times. I love the aimless car rides but there are so many. The sadness and the pain can become oppressive at times, especially when mixed with the near constant flirtation.
Definitely a solid book. I'm eager to investigate other Petterson offerings.