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Loading... Point Counter Point (Modern Library, 180.1) (original 1928; edition 1930)by Aldous Huxley
Work InformationPoint Counter Point by Aldous Huxley (1928)
   No current Talk conversations about this book.  AChild | Jul 7, 2022 |   “A bad book is as much of a labor to write as a good one; it comes as sincerely from the author's soul.” Indeed. (  ) linepainter | Aug 15, 2021 | Character #3 would say I think C. Character #4 would say I disagree I think D. Point. Counterpoint. sigh... ( ) curious_squid | Apr 5, 2021 |  ) DinadansFriend | Nov 25, 2018 |  ) ltfitch1 | Jun 5, 2016 |
 Aldous Huxley's "Point Counter Point," published in 1928, is a highly intellectual novel that delves into the complexities of human relationships and societal norms through a rich tapestry of characters and ideas. Unlike traditional narratives, the novel employs a musical counterpoint as a structural device, interweaving multiple plot lines and perspectives to explore the contradictions and conflicts inherent in human nature and society. Set in the post-World War I era, the novel presents a cross-section of British society, featuring a diverse cast of characters including intellectuals, scientists, artists, and aristocrats. Each character embodies different philosophical and moral viewpoints, allowing Huxley to examine a wide range of themes such as the search for meaning in a post-war world, the conflict between intellect and emotion, the nature of relationships, and the pursuit of happiness. Through the interactions and contrasts between these characters, Huxley critiques the social and cultural mores of his time, particularly the superficiality and moral vacuity of the upper classes. The novel is known for its satirical tone and its intellectual debates on science, religion, politics, and art. "Point Counter Point" is considered one of Huxley's major works, showcasing his ability to blend social commentary with a deep exploration of philosophical and existential questions. It reflects Huxley's preoccupation with the human condition and his skepticism about the capacity of society to foster genuine human fulfillment and ethical development. Belongs to Publisher SeriesIs contained inHas as a student's study guide
Aldous Huxley's lifelong concern with the dichotomy between passion and reason finds its fullest expression both thematically and formally in his masterpiece Point Counter Point. By presenting a vision of life in which diverse aspects of experience are observed simultaneously, Huxley characterizes the symptoms of "the disease of modern man" in the manner of a composer - themes and characters are repeated, altered slightly, and played off one another in a tone that is at once critical and sympathetic. First published in 1928, Huxley's satiric view of intellectual life in the '20s is populated with characters based on such celebrities of the time as D.H. Lawrence, Katherine Mansfield, Sir Oswald Mosley, Nancy Cunard, and John Middleton Murray, as well as Huxley himself. A major work of the 20th century and a monument of literary modernism, this edition includes an introduction by acclaimed novelist Nicholas Mosley (author of Hopeful Monsters and the son of Sir Oswald Mosley). Along with Brave New World (written a few years later), Point Counter Point is Huxley's most concentrated attack on the scientific attitude and its effect on modern culture. No library descriptions found. |
 Legacy Library:
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Wikipedia in English
I enjoyed learning about the real life characters his fictional ones were based on, D. H. Lawrence, Augustus John, Charles Baudelaire, and John Murray. The later being the most humourous portrayal in the story - a publisher choosing submitted stories not by their merit, but instead on the chances of spending time with the female authors upon acceptance of their works. I enjoyed the letters he dictated to his secretary on acceptance or dismissal, I guess Huxley himself received both at some times in his literary pursuits.
Overall I was expecting more of the scientifically minded eccentric characters ( as suggested by Bill Bryson), but the tale transpired to be more about artists and writers, and not as funny as his other novels. (