Against the Day

by Thomas Pynchon
Against the Day cover
Good Books rating 4.42
Magical Realism
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Paperback • £16.99
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  • ID: 6592
  • Added: 2025-11-26
  • Updated: 2025-11-29
  • ISBN: 9780099512332
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2007-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Against the Day by Thomas Pynchon is a sprawling, multi-layered narrative that weaves together elements of historical fiction, science fiction, and magical realism. Set against the backdrop of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the story follows a diverse cast of characters as they navigate a world where the boundaries between reality and fantasy are often indistinct. The novel is known for its intricate plotlines, richly detailed settings, and Pynchon's signature blend of humor and complexity. The book is not just a tale of adventure and intrigue but also a deep exploration of themes such as science, technology, and the human condition. Pynchon's writing is characterized by its dense prose, extensive use of historical and scientific references, and a penchant for the absurd. The characters in Against the Day are as varied as the settings, each bringing their own unique perspectives and quirks to the story. Whether it's the exploration of obscure languages, the depiction of strange sexual practices, or the occurrence of contrary-to-fact events, the novel offers a rich tapestry of experiences that challenge the reader's perceptions of reality.

Reviews
Medium · 2025-11-26
good 4.75

This novel is the most insightful of Pynchon's works, tapping into the human experience in a profound way. The reviewer appreciates the book's depth and the way it connects with readers on a personal level.

The reviewer describes this novel as the most insightful of Pynchon's works, highlighting its ability to tap into the human experience in a profound way. They appreciate the book's depth and the way it connects with readers on a personal level. The reviewer also notes that the book's exploration of the human condition is particularly compelling, making it a standout among Pynchon's novels. They praise the author's ability to create a rich and immersive world that draws the reader in and keeps them engaged.

Quick quotes

    Against the Day is the most insightful of the four Thomas Pynchon books I have read so far.

    It is tapped into the human experience.

    The book's exploration of the human condition is particularly compelling.

January Magazine · 2025-11-26
brilliant 4.50

The novel is a sprawling, ambitious work that demands patience and attention. Its complexity and depth make it a rewarding read for those who appreciate intricate storytelling.

This book is a monumental piece of literature that weaves together multiple narratives and themes. The reviewer notes that it's not a quick or easy read, but the depth and complexity are what make it so compelling. They highlight the author's ability to create a rich, immersive world that draws the reader in, despite its length and density. The reviewer also mentions that the book's themes and characters are thought-provoking, making it a rewarding experience for those who stick with it.

Quick quotes

    It's a sprawling, ambitious work that demands patience and attention.

    Its complexity and depth make it a rewarding read for those who appreciate intricate storytelling.

    The book's themes and characters are thought-provoking.

The Guardian · 2006-11-25
intriguing 4.00

The novel showcases Pynchon's experimental style, which can be overwhelming but also brilliant. It's a dense and challenging read, but one that offers a unique and rewarding experience.

The reviewer points out that this novel is a prime example of Pynchon's experimental and anti-narrative tendencies. They describe it as a dense and challenging read, but one that offers a unique and rewarding experience. The reviewer notes that the book's length and complexity can be overwhelming, but the depth and brilliance of the writing make it worth the effort. They also highlight the book's exploration of the human condition, which adds a layer of depth and richness to the storytelling.

Quick quotes

    Pynchon's experimental, anti-narrative tendencies appear in his latest novel, Against the Day.

    It's a dense and challenging read, but one that offers a unique and rewarding experience.

    The book's exploration of the human condition adds a layer of depth and richness to the storytelling.

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