Naked Lunch

by William Burroughs
Naked Lunch cover
Good Books rating 3.5
Literary Fiction
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  • ID: 7895
  • Added: 2025-12-18
  • Updated: 2025-12-18
  • ISBN: 9780141975672
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 2015-01-29
  • Reviews: 3

Naked Lunch is a cultural landmark and one of the most shocking novels in the English language. It takes readers on an exhilarating ride into the darkest recesses of the human psyche through the eyes of an addict unmoored in New York, Tangier, and a nightmarish wasteland known as Interzone. The novel's formal innovation, formerly taboo subject matter, and tour de force execution have exerted a profound influence on authors like Thomas Pynchon and J. G. Ballard, as well as on the relationship between art and obscenity, and the shape of music, film, and media in general. /n/n This book is not just a narrative but a visceral experience that challenges the boundaries of literature and societal norms. Its unnerving tale and bold exploration of taboo subjects make it a must-read for those interested in the raw and unfiltered aspects of human existence.

Reviews
The Australian Legend · 2023-10-31
intriguing 3.00

The book is a non-linear narrative that becomes increasingly disjointed. It offers a unique and impressionistic portrayal of a world of addiction and depravity.

The Australian Legend's review on their blog describes 'Naked Lunch' as a non-linear narrative that becomes increasingly disjointed and impressionistic. They note that the book's lack of a clear plot can be challenging, but it also allows for a unique and immersive experience. The reviewer appreciates the book's raw and unfiltered portrayal of addiction and human depravity, seeing it as a testament to Burroughs' literary genius. They acknowledge the book's difficulties but ultimately see it as a significant work that offers a profound and unsettling look into the human condition.

Quick quotes

    Naked Lunch is a non-linear narrative without a clear plot and ends with The book then becomes increasingly disjointed and impressionistic, and finally simply ...

    It offers a unique and impressionistic portrayal of a world of addiction and depravity.

    The book's raw and unfiltered portrayal of addiction and human depravity is a testament to Burroughs' literary genius.

Bernie Gourley · Bernie Gourley · 2022-04-20
excellent 4.00

The book is an engrossing read despite its bizarre and pornographic content. It offers insight into a unique state of mind and is a testament to Burroughs' literary genius.

Bernie Gourley's review on their blog describes 'Naked Lunch' as an engrossing read that, despite its bizarre and frequently pornographic content, offers profound insights into a unique state of mind. They appreciate the book's literary merit and Burroughs' ability to create a world that is both disturbing and fascinating. Gourley acknowledges the book's challenges but ultimately sees it as a significant work that rewards the reader's perseverance. They highlight the restored text's additional layers and depth, making it a must-read for those interested in Burroughs' vision.

Quick quotes

    I found this book to be an engrossing read.

    It's bizarre, outlandish, and frequently pornographic, it also lends insight into a state of mind.

    The restored text adds layers and depth to the original, making it a more complete and rewarding read.

The Guardian · Anthony Burgess · 2015-11-20
harrowing 3.50

The book is a revelation that may not appeal to everyone. It offers a unique and unflinching look into a world of addiction and depravity. It is a challenging read that demands courage to fully appreciate.

Anthony Burgess's review in The Guardian highlights the raw and unfiltered nature of 'Naked Lunch'. They describe it as a book that will likely not please everyone, given its graphic and disturbing content. However, Burgess argues that this very rawness is what makes the book important and necessary. They see it as a courageous work that exposes the dark underbelly of addiction and human depravity. The review suggests that while the book may be difficult to stomach, its impact and relevance are undeniable.

Quick quotes

    It is a revelation which will please nobody and may spoil a few appetites, but it has to be made, though few have the courage to make it.

    The book is a testament to Burroughs' unflinching gaze into the abyss of addiction.

    It is a work that demands to be read, if only to understand the depths of human experience it portrays.

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