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A review by steveatwaywords
Titus Groan by Mervyn Peake
dark
funny
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.75
Phew!
While I understand the awe created by Peake's undertaking (specifically in style, in creating tableaux, in forging humorous characters and satirizing behaviors), the work expected of the reader is not small. And while writers like Tolkien offer expansive worlds, despite the size of the castle, Gormanghast is insular and claustrophobic. As the sentences and scenes revolve around themselves, it is difficult to find a thread of theme or significance in the story.
Indeed, there is very little. Some characters are in conflict with others, one is fast becoming a master manipulator, another is born heir to the domain, and all are broken and misshapen by the tiny spaces they have for generations inhabited. But what story? what goal? what outcome? It was difficult as a reader to discover a reason for caring.
So my high rating is for the style, scale, and uniqueness of the work. However, I am unlikely to return to it.
While I understand the awe created by Peake's undertaking (specifically in style, in creating tableaux, in forging humorous characters and satirizing behaviors), the work expected of the reader is not small. And while writers like Tolkien offer expansive worlds, despite the size of the castle, Gormanghast is insular and claustrophobic. As the sentences and scenes revolve around themselves, it is difficult to find a thread of theme or significance in the story.
Indeed, there is very little. Some characters are in conflict with others, one is fast becoming a master manipulator, another is born heir to the domain, and all are broken and misshapen by the tiny spaces they have for generations inhabited. But what story? what goal? what outcome? It was difficult as a reader to discover a reason for caring.
So my high rating is for the style, scale, and uniqueness of the work. However, I am unlikely to return to it.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Violence