The Atrocity Exhibition by J. G. Ballard

First published in 1970, 'The Atrocity Exhibition' is a groundbreaking experimental novel by the acclaimed author of 'Crash' and 'Super-Cannes'. This extraordinary tour de force delves into the irrational, all-pervading violence of the modern world, as seen through the eyes of a central character whose dreams are haunted by iconic figures like John F. Kennedy and Marilyn Monroe, as well as images of dead astronauts and car-crash victims. The novel is renowned for its innovative and experimental style, which has cemented its status as a cult classic./n/nThe protagonist's journey is one of self-discovery and psychological turmoil, as he casts himself in various roles—H-bomber pilot, presidential assassin, crash victim, psychopath—in an attempt to understand and transcend his own psychic turmoil. Through the dark and perverse magic of violence, he ultimately finds a key to a bizarre new sexuality. This novel is a profound exploration of the human condition, blending surrealism with a critique of contemporary society.

Reviews

Fantasy Literature · 2019-11-23

fascinating 3.80

This book challenges traditional narrative structures, using experimental techniques to evoke powerful ideas. It's a unique and thought-provoking read that blurs the lines between novel and collection.

Fantasy Literature dives into the unconventional narrative style of 'The Atrocity Exhibition', noting how it plays with structure and semantics to create a vivid experience. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to provoke thought and challenge the reader's expectations, even if it doesn't fit neatly into any genre. They highlight the book's exploration of media and violence, making it a compelling, if somewhat disturbing, read. The experimental nature of the book is both its strength and its challenge, offering a unique experience that not all readers will appreciate equally.

Quick quotes

A novel only in the loosest sense possible, The Atrocity Exhibition plays with structure, semiography, and semantics to create ideas in the reader's mind.

It's a unique and thought-provoking read that blurs the lines between novel and collection.

The Atrocity Exhibition is a unique and thought-provoking read that challenges traditional narrative structures.

One Hundred Pages · 2018-02-14

thought-provoking 3.50

The book explores how mass media shapes individual perception and reality. Its fragmented narrative reflects the chaos of modern media consumption.

One Hundred Pages delves into the book's exploration of how mass media infiltrates and fractures the individual mind. The reviewer finds the fragmented narrative style to be a fitting reflection of the chaos and overload of modern media. They appreciate the book's prescient themes, noting how relevant they remain in today's media-saturated world. The reviewer also highlights the book's ability to evoke a sense of unease and disorientation, mirroring the psychological impact of constant media exposure.

Quick quotes

The stories describe how the mass media landscape inadvertently invades and splinters the private mind of the individual.

The fragmented narrative reflects the chaos of modern media consumption.

The book's themes are eerily prescient, reflecting the psychological impact of constant media exposure.

Breathes Books · Nicky @ The Bibliophibian · 2014-01-19

mixed 3.20

The book showcases Ballard's skill with its cold, clear prose, but its experimental nature may not appeal to all readers. It's a challenging but rewarding read.

Nicky @ The Bibliophibian acknowledges Ballard's skill in 'The Atrocity Exhibition', praising the cold, clear edge of his writing. However, they note that the book's experimental nature and challenging narrative may not appeal to all readers. Nicky appreciates the book's exploration of media and violence, finding it both fascinating and disturbing. Despite not keeping the book, they are glad they tried it and recognize its literary merit. The reviewer's mixed feelings reflect the book's polarizing nature, offering a unique experience that is not for everyone.

Quick quotes

End result: I'm convinced of Ballard's skill, no doubt — he writes with a cold clear edge — and glad I tried this book, but I'm not keeping it.

The book's experimental nature and challenging narrative may not appeal to all readers.

The Atrocity Exhibition is a fascinating and disturbing exploration of media and violence.

Appears in Lists

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