American Psycho

Celebrating 50 years of Picador Books

American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis is an unsettling exploration of the dark corners of human nature wrapped in the guise of a sharply satirical thriller. Set in the elite environs of Manhattan's corporate world during the 1980s, the novel follows Patrick Bateman, an impeccably dressed and outwardly successful investment banker who leads a double life as a brutal serial killer.

Patrick Bateman epitomises the American Dream with his affluent lifestyle, magnetic charm, and a role on Wall Street that promises limitless power and wealth. He dines at the finest restaurants, works out rigorously, and maintains a meticulously groomed appearance. However, beneath this veneer of perfection lies a deeply disturbed psyche, revealing a chilling juxtaposition between Bateman’s glossy exterior and the grotesque violence he perpetrates. Through his grim escapades, Bateman invites readers into a dark underworld, raising poignant questions about the nature of evil and the facade of societal norms.

With searing wit and unnerving intensity, American Psycho does more than tell the story of a man’s descent into madness; it critiques the consumerism, materialism, and moral decay prevalent in 1980s America. Bret Easton Ellis’s vivid and often shocking portrayal of Bateman’s world blurs the lines between reality and delusion, keeping readers on edge with its unpredictable narrative style. The novel's brutal honesty and graphic content have spurred fervent debate and controversy, making it one of the most talked-about books of its time.

Accompanied by an introduction from acclaimed author Irvine Welsh, American Psycho has been recognised as a groundbreaking work of modern literature. It is a violent and outrageous black comedy that boldly exposes the darkest side of human nature with an unflinching gaze.

Part of the Picador Collection, American Psycho continues to captivate and disturb readers, affirming its status as a modern classic. This edition is a testament to Picador's commitment to bringing the best of contemporary literary achievements to a broad audience.

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