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Woodcutters

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( 8,884 ratings, 1,070 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
Woodcutters by Thomas Bernhard is a compelling exploration of artistic life and personal disillusionment, set against the backdrop of an emotionally charged and fiery dinner party in Vienna. The protagonist, a once-estranged writer, finds himself observing the pretentiousness and existential angst of his former circle of friends and acquaintances, leading to incisive reflections on art, society, and human relationships. The narrative unfolds with Bernhard's signature wit and dark humour, inviting readers to ponder deep themes within a seemingly mundane gathering.
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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 appreciate introspective narratives that delve into the complexities of art, friendship, and society, all set against the backdrop of a tense dinner party. Its sharp wit and unique perspective offer a compelling exploration of human relationships and cultural critique.

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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

Fiercely observed, often hilarious, and “reminiscent of Ibsen and Strindberg” (The New York Times Book Review), this exquisitely controversial novel was initially banned in its author’s homeland.

A searing portrayal of Vienna’s bourgeoisie, Woodcutters begins with the arrival of an unnamed writer at an ‘artistic dinner’ hosted by a composer and his society wife—a couple he once admired and has come to loathe. The guest of honour, a distinguished actor from the Burgtheater, is late. As the other guests wait impatiently, they are seen through the critical eye of the writer, who narrates a silent but frenzied tirade against these former friends, most of whom have been brought together by Joana, a woman they buried earlier that day.

Reflections on Joana’s life and suicide are mixed with these denunciations until the famous actor arrives, bringing an explosive end to the evening that even the writer could not have seen coming.

Series: Vintage International

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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?

Woodcutters by Thomas Bernhard is often praised for its incisive critique of Viennese society and its introspective narrative style. Critics frequently highlight Bernhard's acerbic wit and the novel's intense focus on existential themes. The book's narrative is sometimes described as relentless and compelling, reflecting the author's unique ability to probe deeply into the human psyche and societal conventions.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781400077595

Publisher: Random House USA Inc

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 10 August 2010

Country: United States

Imprint: Random House Inc

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 10.0mm

Width: 132.0mm

Height: 203.0mm

Weight: 170g

Pages: 192

About the Author

Thomas Bernhard was born in Holland in 1931 and grew up in Austria. He studied music at the Akademie Mozarteum in Salzburg. In 1957 he began a second career, as a playwright, poet, and novelist. The winner of the three most distinguished and coveted literary prizes awarded in Germany, he has become one of the most widely translated and admired writers of his generation. He published nine novels, an autobiography, one volume of poetry, four collections of short stories, and six volumes of plays. Thomas Bernhard died in Austria in 1989.

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