Murphy

by Samuel Beckett
Murphy cover
Good Books rating 4.16
Literary Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 380
  • Added: 2025-09-10
  • Updated: 2025-09-10
  • ISBN: 9780571296989
  • Publisher: Faber & Faber
  • Published: 2012-08-16
  • Formats: 9
  • Reviews: 4
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Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99

Murphy, published in 1938, is Samuel Beckett's first novel and showcases his unique blend of absurdity and comic energy to depict a world of isolation and misunderstanding. The story follows Murphy, a work-shy man adrift in London, who realizes that desire can never be satisfied and retreats into a state of stupor. His fiancée Celia tries tragically to reconnect with him, but her efforts are doomed, while Murphy's friends appear as fragmented versions of himself, emphasizing his alienation. Beyond the plot, Beckett's achievement lies in his inventive use of language and philosophical depth, positioning Murphy as a rollicking philosophical jeu d'esprit in the tradition of Cervantes and Swift. The novel is rich with intricate verbal jokes and absurdist humor, balancing bleak themes with exuberant prose. It also contains satirical elements targeting Irish society and censorship, making it a complex and multilayered work that has earned its place among the giants of novelistic invention.

Reviews
eNotes.com · 2025-09-10
thoughtful 4.00

Murphy's pursuit of inaction and mental freedom is continually disrupted by others, creating a tension between his desire for detachment and the chaotic demands of life.

The review explores the central paradox of Murphy's character: his yearning for blissful nonexistence through mental detachment and inactivity, inspired by a Dantean figure, Belaqua. Despite his efforts to live a life of minimal activity, Murphy is repeatedly pulled into the complexities and demands of the world around him, which ultimately leads to his downfall. The reviewer also discusses the novel’s interplay between simple plot elements and complex character relationships, noting how Murphy's interactions with characters like Celia and Miss Counihan highlight his struggle to maintain his detached state. This analysis underscores Beckett’s thematic focus on existential conflict, the absurdity of human existence, and the futility of trying to escape engagement with life.

Quick quotes

    Murphy is a novel where the main character's quest for inaction is continuously thwarted by those around him.

    His ambition is to rock himself into oblivion, detaching his body to liberate his mind.

    Murphy becomes involved with Celia, a compassionate yet beleaguered sex worker who implores him to embrace a stable lifestyle.

Keeping Up With The Penguins · 2022-08-15
absurd 4.20

The novel's protagonist, Murphy, embodies a strange quest for escape from reality through inactivity and mental detachment, leading to an absurd and darkly comic conclusion.

This review highlights Murphy's unique character as a solipsist who finds refuge from the real world by working at a mental asylum, hoping to lose himself among the patients and escape conscious existence. The reviewer notes the absurdity and dark humor permeating the story, especially in how Murphy's friends futilely try to bring him back from his detached state, culminating unexpectedly in his death and the casual treatment of his remains by those around him. The tone conveys a mixture of bemusement and appreciation for Beckett's unconventional narrative style and bleak humor. They emphasize the surreal and offbeat nature of the story, pointing out the oddity of Murphy’s behavior and the peculiar dynamics with supporting characters like Celia and Miss Counihan. The review suggests the novel’s ending is both grim and ironic, fitting with Beckett’s exploration of human absurdity and detachment.

Quick quotes

    He’s so happy in his new work that he ditches Celia, and promptly forgets all about her.

    And just as you think the story is approaching some big confrontation or resolution, Murphy dies.

    They charge Cooper with putting Murphy’s remains to rest, which he does by spilling the ashes during a bar-room brawl and just leaving them there.

The Indiependent · 2022-08-15
intriguing 4.20

Murphy is portrayed as an enigmatic character whose motivations remain elusive, drawing people in despite their lack of understanding. The review highlights the novel's exploration of absurdity and the complexity of human nature through Murphy's character.

This review appreciates Murphy as a fascinating, enigmatic protagonist who captivates those around him without ever revealing his true self or intentions fully. The reviewer finds the novel's strength in its portrayal of Murphy’s inscrutable nature, which invites readers to ponder the contradictions and absurdities of human existence. The character's mysterious aura makes the narrative compelling and thought-provoking, reflecting Beckett’s unique style of blending humor with existential inquiry. They emphasize that Murphy’s character is the highlight of the book, providing a rich subject for reflection on identity and the human condition. The review suggests that the novel is not just about plot but about the philosophical and emotional resonance of Murphy’s elusive personality, making it a rewarding but challenging read for those interested in literary depth and complexity.

Quick quotes

    The highlight of the book is Murphy himself.

    He is a bit of an enigma; people are drawn to him, but no one ever truly understands him or why he does what he does.

    Murphy’s inscrutable nature invites readers to explore the contradictions and absurdities of human existence.

The Indiependent · Anonymous · 2022-08-15
intriguing 4.25

Murphy is seen as an enigmatic character who draws others to him but remains largely misunderstood, making him the highlight of the novel.

The reviewer finds Murphy himself to be the central and most compelling aspect of the book. They describe him as a mysterious figure that intrigues those around him, yet no one fully comprehends his motivations or inner life. This ambiguity adds depth and intrigue to the story, making Murphy's character a fascinating study in human complexity and existential detachment.

Quick quotes

    The highlight of the book is Murphy himself.

    He is a bit of an enigma; people are drawn to him, but no one ever truly understands him or why he does what he does.

    Murphy's elusive nature keeps readers engaged and pondering his true essence.

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