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Under the Volcano

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( 26,509 ratings, 2,072 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Under the Volcano by Malcolm Lowry explores the tragic final day in the life of Geoffrey Firmin, an alcoholic British consul in Mexico during the Day of the Dead festival in 1938. As he spirals deeper into despair and addiction, his personal struggles become entwined with the lives of his estranged wife and half-brother, set against the backdrop of political upheaval and cultural vibrancy. The novel poignantly captures themes of loss, redemption, and the inevitable consequences of one's choices.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're drawn to complex narratives exploring themes of despair and redemption. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Mexico during the Day of the Dead, it captures the turbulent struggles of a British consul trying to navigate his inner demons amidst a decaying world. It's compelling for readers who appreciate rich, symbolic prose and intense character studies.

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Under the Volcano

It is the fiesta 'Day of the Dead' in the small Mexican town of Quauhnahuac. In the shadow of the volcano, ragged children beg coins to buy skulls made of chocolate, ugly pariah dogs roam the streets and Geoffrey Firmin - ex-consul, ex-husband, an alcoholic and a ruined man - is living out the last day of his life.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

It is the Day of the Dead. The fiesta is in full swing. In the shadow of Popocatepeti, ragged children beg for coins to buy skulls made of chocolate, and ugly pariah dogs roam the streets.

Geoffrey Firmin, HM ex-consul, is drowning himself in liquor and Mescal, while his ex-wife and half-brother look on, powerless to help him. As the day wears on, it becomes apparent that Geoffrey must die. It is his only escape from a world he cannot understand.

Under the Volcano is one of the century's great undisputed masterpieces.

Series: Penguin Modern Classics

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Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Under the Volcano is praised for its significant impact on twentieth-century fiction, showcasing Malcolm Lowry's unique talent in using language poetically and transforming personal experiences into universally resonant narratives.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780141182254

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 03 February 2000

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Classics

Contributors:

  • Introduction by Michael Schmidt

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 18.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 283g

Pages: 400

About the Author

Malcolm Lowry (1909 - 1957) was raised in England and died there but lived much of his troubled life semi-nomadically - in New York, Mexico and British Columbia.

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