A review by nixiethepixie
Vernon Subutex 1 by Virginie Despentes

challenging dark reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

A sprawling tapestry of fascinating characters amidst the backdrop of Paris and the death of a punk rock star. Touches on lots of different aspects of *life* within this current time. For so much of the reading experience, I pondered what was punk about this work, but I realised its state of being, not following any particular rules and expectations, was punk. I enjoyed the way this world unfolded on its own accord and kind of just obsessed with Despentes and want to read more of her work. Definitely a world for those who are happy to sit in an atmosphere and story where not much happens, but every moment we do encounter carries a history with it. This work thrives in this observatory way that gets in the head of the characters, most of whom we only spend a chapter or so with. I enjoyed finding out how different characters were connected and how they experienced different shared encounters. Am definitely curious to continue the trilogy.