Queer: A Novel by William S. Burroughs Summary and Reviews
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Book Reviews of Queer: A Novel
Book Review: BRILLIANT WRITING
Summary: 5 Stars
The 1985 introduction by the author is very poignant and valuable for a clear understanding of the novel. Especially the admission that it was the accidental death of his wife by his own hand that motivated and formulated his writing. Although Junky: The Definitive Text of Junk (50th Anniversary Edition) is great, Queer reveals a more human side to his work where one can actually empathize with the main character. His descriptions of Mexico City in the late 1940s and his circle of friends, many of whom were fellow American expatriates, lend a special air of magic to the writing. The flashes of humour are always unique and refreshing, eg. the amusing story of his fantasy trip to the "Upper Ubangi." A brilliant work whose many charms I intend to delve into again and again.Book Review: Burroughs' best book.
Summary: 4 Stars
This is my favorite book by Burroughs. It is more introspective than "Junky" and more coherent than his famed cut-up works. It also has a softer, more personal feel than "Junky." This book tells of Burroughs' love affairs with men during a time when such things were not out in the open yet, which would explain why it was published so late. It also gives interesting historical portraits of Mexico, New York City, and other various places.If you like picareque novels, this is one of the finest.
Book Review: Good
Summary: 4 Stars
Unlike those Burroughs 'fanatics,' I dig Burroughs more straight, earthy work, a la Junky, Western Lands (etc.), and of course, Queer. Queer is an excellent follow up to Junky, and yes, is very easy to read, which sometimes, like this time, works for the better. Naked Lunch is fine - funny, witty, unrelenting. Cut-ups - not necesarilly for me. Give me Junky, Queer, etc.Book Review: Tear-wrenching Situation Satire
Summary: 5 Stars
William's QUEER was a stunningly perfect piece of evidence supporting the statement that "Nothing a person can write has the capacity to be untrue." As I read the book during a five-day visit to Gettysburgh University, PA, I couldn't help but laugh at the subtle similarities between Lee's sorrow, his overbearing affection for Allerton, his vulnerability, and all those elements also exhibited in modern day 'traditional' lives. QUEER is an unignorable read for the Burroughs buff and everyone else.Book Review: Full of compassion
Summary: 5 Stars
This book is so sad. Borroughs constant neglection and isolation is so dramatic that we probably all feel very sad about his experiences. "Queer" is a book describing a man's search for his identity and recognition in Society. Wonderful book that really needs to be read by everyone.