Dhalgren

Dhalgren cover
Good Books rating 3.5

Technical:
  • ID: 1172
  • Added: 2025-09-27
  • Updated: 2025-09-27
  • ISBN: 9780575091009
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2010-07-22
  • Formats: 17
  • Reviews: 3
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Dhalgren follows 'the Kid,' a mysterious young man who arrives in the anarchic city of Bellona, a place that feels both familiar and surreal with its two moons. As he navigates this strange world, he starts writing a novel called Dhalgren, which begins where it ends, exploring the boundaries of fiction and the unique experiences of youth culture. The book is a profound exploration of identity, reality, and the power of storytelling, blending elements of science fiction and literary experimentation. It challenges readers to question the nature of narrative and the possibilities of fiction. Set in a dystopian landscape, Dhalgren is not just a story but a journey into the mind of its protagonist and the world he inhabits. The novel's nonlinear structure and poetic prose make it a unique and thought-provoking read. It delves into themes of isolation, creativity, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world, making it a standout work in the realm of speculative fiction.

Reviews
Edifice Rex Online · 2021-12-05
fascinating 4.00

They find the novel fascinating and real despite its impossible scenarios, often humorous and thought-provoking. The reviewer appreciates its unique blend of reality and absurdity.

The reviewer from Edifice Rex Online finds Dhalgren to be a captivating read, despite its impossible scenarios. They describe the novel as tremendously real and sometimes laugh-out-loud funny. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to blend reality with absurdity, creating a thought-provoking and engaging experience. They highlight the novel's unique qualities, which make it a standout in the realm of speculative fiction.


Quick quotes

    Dhalgren is a novel I have found endlessly fascinating, tremendously real despite its impossibility.

    Sometimes laugh-out-loud funny.

    A thought-provoking and engaging experience.

The Paris Review · Tynan Kogane · 2020-03-30
thought-provoking 3.00

They note the book's formal and linguistic experimentations are challenging but ultimately rewarding. The reviewer finds it uncomfortable but thought-provoking.

Tynan Kogane from The Paris Review acknowledges that Dhalgren is not an easy read due to its formal and linguistic experimentations. They describe the book as uncomfortable and not very comforting, but also deeply thought-provoking. The reviewer appreciates the novel's boldness and willingness to push boundaries, even if it makes for a challenging reading experience. They find value in the book's exploration of complex themes and its unique narrative style.


Quick quotes

    Delany's formal and linguistic experimentations are a bumpy road to follow.

    It's not a very comforting book.

    The novel's boldness and willingness to push boundaries make it a thought-provoking read.

kara.reviews · Kara Babcock · 2011-05-25
polarizing 3.50

This book is polarizing, with some praising it highly while others criticize it harshly. The reviewer acknowledges its divisive nature but finds value in its unique qualities.

Kara Babcock highlights that Dhalgren is a book that sparks strong opinions. Some renowned authors have praised it, while others have been highly critical. The reviewer notes that the novel's polarizing nature is part of its charm, as it challenges readers and defies conventional expectations. They appreciate the book's boldness and willingness to explore complex themes, even if it doesn't always succeed in its execution. The book's experimental style and thematic depth make it a noteworthy read, despite its flaws.


Quick quotes

    This is a polarizing book that has earned high praise from some renowned authors, such as William Gibson, and nothing but vitriol from others.

    Dhalgren is a book that demands a lot from its readers, and it's not for everyone.

    The novel's experimental style and thematic depth make it a noteworthy read.