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“Everybody hates each other here.” That reminded me of J. G. Ballard’s “High-Rise”, a 1970s novel with a unique twist on the post-apocalyptic landscape familia
by pavlov 4y ago
“Everybody hates each other here.”
That reminded me of J. G. Ballard’s “High-Rise”, a 1970s novel with a unique twist on the post-apocalyptic landscape familiar from scifi:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-Rise_(novel) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-Rise_(novel)
- keiferski 4y agoDecent book, but personally I found it like a lot of Ballard’s other work: fascinating concept that somehow didn’t turn into an interesting story. It just emphasizes how a cool idea doesn’t replace storytelling skills.
- FpUser 4y agoI found Ballard's works strangely attractive. Definitely not because of "fascinating concepts" or some superb writing skills but because of the mood they project. I keep coming back every once in a while.
- pavlov 4y agoSame for me. I can certainly understand why someone wouldn’t like Ballard’s novels. The plotting isn’t necessarily memorable. But there’s something unique in the combination where both the physical landscapes and the characters’ mental landscapes are simultaneously tormented and transformed. I often think of the TV producer in “High-Rise” driving back from work to his apartment building, his mind taken over by the alternate cosmos inside the building as he moves through the parking lot. It’s a strong image for me. But I’m sure other Ballard readers have completely different touchpoints in the same work.
- jahnu 4y agoI love this novel so much. From the opening paragraph the tone is set!