Reading the World discussion

Please share thoughts on the book or knowledge of the author.

Kindle version 2.99 US

https://www.amazon.com/Immoralist-And...

I have read this a couple of times in French, and Gide's language is so clear that a translator should be able to stay true to the spirit of the book.
I have read a number of Gide's works and plan to read more.

I have not read this or anything else by Gide but I am really looking forward to it

Read this book...a couple years ago I think? Overall I liked it, and fair warning the title is approriate lol.

For some reason I am dreading it. I know nothing about him, so I don't know why. LOL.

The main character is very self-centred, which makes him immoral. It is an interesting look at life in French Algeria.

Rosemarie wrote: "The main character is very self-centred, which makes him immoral. It is an interesting look at life in French Algeria."

I think it is because I didnt love Camus' The Stranger... For some reason I am relating them

This is set in a different time period, with a more interesting plot. My favourite Camus novel is The Plague. L'Etranger is too bleak for me.

Rosemarie wrote: "This is set in a different time period, with a more interesting plot. My favourite Camus novel is The Plague. L'Etranger is too bleak for me."

Thanks Rosemarie. I have decided not to buy it, but if my library gets it in I will read it.

I finished this short novel which revolved around the disintegration of moral constraints in a very self centered man. The main character Michel was always self-centered but he was also steadfast in his adherence to strict codes of conduct. After recovering from a potentially fatal illness he found himself only interested in his own sensual life rather than in societal expectations. The book is not graphic in its decent into debauchery, rather Gide makes his character caress with the eyes and only occasionally satisfy other bodily needs. Michel's relationship with his wife also takes center stage as he believes he loves her but is shocked to find out she actually has a mind of her own. Ultimately he only knows self-love.
One of the best things about this book is that I never found myself thinking that Gide and Michel were one and the same. The author stands apart from his character, almost disliking him as much as he wants us to dislike him but also sharing with us the understanding that this self love and desire for self-satisfaction, exists in part in all of us.
A quote:
"Don't you realize that our own eyes magnify and exaggerate whatever they happen to see - that we make anyone become what we claim he is?"

Gail wrote: "I finished this short novel which revolved around the disintegration of moral constraints in a very self centered man. The main character Michel was always self-centered but he was also steadfast i..."

As usual, I love your review. I am especially glad to read the part about thinking the author and character are distinct.