Customer Reviews (2)

The decline...
A work that is simple in word, and complex in breadth. I came across Ionesco's book in a most befitting place, abondoned in the basement of an old tenement building. After reading the first few pages, I was drawn to the similarities in writing style between this French author, and that of his fellow countryman, Albert Camus. Whereas the 'stranger' was a nihilist who lacked a moral compass, the 'hermit' feels all too much. A man who is freed from having to work, slowly withdrawals from a role as active participant, to that of silent observer. As he fades, he's subject to a myriad of hallucinatory visions, all the while searching for exactly what is real, and if what is real, really exists. Or is he? He is Atlas, a man who admits to carrying the fears of the world on his shoulders, and who believes his malaise, anxiety and worry, are necessary motivations. The story can be read on several levels, some more evanescent and elusive than others. In the 'hermit's' own words (as translated by Richard Seaver): "I realized that I thought too much, I who have promised myself not to think at all, which is much the wiser course since, in any case, no one understands a word I say."

And what would YOU do if you inherited a million dollars?
This book is an interesting existential analysis of the human condition as seen through the eyes of a former office clerk who, after inheriting a large sum, decides to leave his job. From then on, he alternately existsexperientially and through hallucination. He views the rush of theindividual through the world in moments both intimate and clear followed bygigantic, historical events that pass in a blur. I found it to be a complexwork of great style and vision. That sounds like a real cop-out but hereally does make a fine set of statements in a vivid, yet surreal way. Agood read but you gots to pay attention. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

More People Should Read Ionesco
These are two of his greatest works.The minimalist appeal of "Les Chaises" only accentuates the tragic narrative of age and lost youth.Any couple that has been married for a long time can relate to "L'Impromptu de L'Alma".

While these are two of his more interesting works, they do not approach the level of social commentary of Les Rhinoceros or the sadness of dodage and ego in Le Roi se Meurt. I just wish that the anglophone world was more familiar with this giant of French theatre, one, I would say, is the greatest French dramatist since Moliere. ... Read more

Product Description
drama, tr Barbara Wright ... Read more