The Sword and Laser discussion

I've finally figured it out. The author has set out to the mind numbing task of creating the most insane piece of literature possible. As I read I've been getting more and more incensed at the descriptions, situations, and characters; but now, as I've given up, it is starting to actually make sense. It is the firm hand of chaos shaping this story and it's mind boggling.

And this is not fun?

As it turns out, the bizarro coincidences, outre characters, and seemingly throwaway descriptions all end up being terribly important as the book wraps up. It's one of the great delights of this novel is that you can dive in and simply enjoy each bonkers episode on its own, or step back and appreciate the hidden structure.

It works like any good mystery novel does. At the end you just go "why didn't I think of that".

Jason wrote: "I've finally figured it out. The author has set out to the mind numbing task of creating the most insane piece of literature possible. As I read I've been getting more and more incensed at the desc..."

I think that's part of the reason I felt conflicted reading this book. I found it a quick read and would say I was enjoying it but there was just something there keeping me from saying it was a book I really liked or would recommend.

I first read Bridge of Birds three or four years ago (for a local book discussion club). If it hadn't been for that I likely would have lemmed it. I was very glad I hadn't when I got to the end.

The insanity in prose is kind of preventing me from getting really into this. It kind of reminds me of Tigana and how wordy Guy Gavriel Kay is. I'm going to finish though because so many people say the ending is so rewarding.