Williwaw

by Gore Vidal
Williwaw cover
Good Books rating 3.83
Historical Fiction
Technical
  • ID: 5286
  • Added: 2025-10-23
  • Updated: 2025-10-23
  • ISBN: 9781839742750
  • Publisher: Pickle Partners Publishing
  • Published: 2020-02-25
  • Reviews: 3

Williwaw, first published in 1946, is the debut novel from the acclaimed Gore Vidal, drawing from his own experiences as a first mate on a supply ship during World War II. The story unfolds in the harsh and unforgiving Aleutian Islands, where a small ship and her crew face the relentless forces of the Bering Sea. The novel captures the intense struggle against the elements, as a violent wind known as a williwaw threatens to destroy the ship./n/nBeyond the physical battle, the crew's internal dynamics add layers of tension and drama. As the ship fights to return to port, the mounting conflicts among the crew members create a gripping narrative that explores the human condition under extreme pressure. Vidal's vivid descriptions and authentic portrayal of life at sea make this a compelling read for fans of maritime adventures and historical fiction.

Reviews
GCAPTAIN Forum · Mariners and Readers · 2025-10-23
good 3.50

The novel is appreciated for its authenticity and the believable characters, making it a captivating read. The cold and harsh conditions are vividly portrayed, adding to the overall impact.

In the GCAPTAIN Forum, mariners and readers discuss Williwaw, highlighting its authenticity and the believable characters. The novel's portrayal of the cold and harsh conditions is particularly praised, as it adds a layer of realism that enhances the reading experience. The characters' interactions and the situation they find themselves in are described as honest and relatable, making the story engaging and thought-provoking. The forum participants appreciate how Vidal's writing makes them feel the cold and the tension, creating a vivid and immersive narrative. The novel is seen as a simple yet interesting story that resonates with readers on a deeper level.

Quick quotes

    A simple interesting story, which made me think.

    The characters and situation are honest and believable.

    I can feel the cold.

Goodreads · Various · 2025-10-23
excellent 4.00

This novel is praised for its vivid portrayal of life aboard an Army boat and its exploration of human nature under stress. The writing is tight and engaging, making it a compelling read despite its short length.

Readers on Goodreads have highlighted how Williwaw effectively captures the tension and camaraderie among the crew. The novel's setting in the Aleutian Islands during World War II provides a stark backdrop for the characters' struggles. Many appreciate Vidal's ability to convey the harsh conditions and the psychological impact on the soldiers. The story is seen as a powerful debut, showcasing Vidal's talent for storytelling and character development. The concise yet impactful prose keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

Quick quotes

    Vidal's first novel is a gem, written with a maturity beyond his years.

    The characters are so well-drawn that you feel like you're right there with them.

    A gripping tale that doesn't waste a single word.

The Guardian · Guardian Review · 2003-11-21
great 4.00

The novel's episodic structure builds tension effectively, and the prose is both sparse and evocative. It offers a unique perspective on the war through the lens of a maritime setting.

The Guardian's review of Williwaw emphasizes the novel's episodic structure, which effectively builds tension and keeps readers on edge. The sparse and elemental prose is noted for its evocative power, transporting readers to the harsh and unforgiving environment of the Aleutian Islands. The review highlights how Vidal's writing captures the essence of the maritime setting, providing a unique and compelling perspective on the war. The characters' struggles against nature and themselves are depicted with a raw honesty that resonates with readers. Overall, the novel is praised for its ability to convey the psychological and physical challenges faced by the soldiers.

Quick quotes

    Vidal's episodic structure rachets up the tension.

    His prose is sparse and elemental.

    A gripping tale of men struggling against nature and themselves.

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