Review of In Search of Achilles
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Singh Tejpal
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Review of In Search of Achilles
[Following is a volunteer review of "In Search of Achilles" by Marco van den Berg Scholten.]
"In Search of Achilles" by Marco van den Berg Scholten.
When Johan van Geesteren, Rombouts, Erik Leeghwater, and Hink Jan Hulsecker meet, they reminisce about the past and discuss their current lives. Johan is studying English literature and living with his girlfriend in Amsterdam, while his friends are studying medicine and economics. Johan learns that their mutual friend, Achilles, has become a successful model and is popular with women. Johan received a call from his enthusiastic friend Kees, who invited him and his partner, Els, to lunch in Amsterdam the next day. They planned to meet at a restaurant near the concert hall.
Els agreed, and the next day they joined Kees and his wife, Marga, for lunch. Kees was jovial and outgoing, while Marga was more reserved. The lunch was pleasant, with friendly conversation and laughter. Roderick, a seasoned man with a deep, kind voice, assures Johan they'll speak privately later. Kees comments on Roderick, while Marga expresses worry about Kees' behavior. Johan considers involving Officer Feenstra but decides to keep an eye on things himself. Johan is approached by Roderick, who critiques Johan's writing, emphasizing the need for consistency of voice. He encourages Johan to keep writing and practicing.
"In Search of Achilles" by Marco van den Berg Scholten captivated me with its vivid portrayal of a young man's journey through a turbulent world. Johan van Geesteren, the protagonist, navigates the complexities of post-Communist Europe while grappling with personal and societal challenges. His quest for meaning and belonging in a rapidly changing landscape is both poignant and thought-provoking. Marco van den Berg Scholten's writing brings to life the atmosphere of a society in transition, filled with promise yet fraught with uncertainty. The detailed descriptions of Johan's experiences, from the boisterous student life to the introspective moments of self-doubt, create a rich tapestry that draws the reader into his world. The relationship between Johan and his best friend, Achilles, adds depth to the narrative, showcasing the enduring bond of friendship amid chaos.
I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars, and the book doesn't have any dislikes. The book delves into the complexities of identity, the pursuit of ambition, and the universal human search for meaning, creating a deeply affecting story. Scholten masterfully weaves these themes into a compelling story, keeping me engaged with slow-building tension and characters of emotional depth. The novel's lingering impact is a testament to its beautiful writing and profound themes. Including the book's editing, which is impeccable. This novel's evocative storytelling and rich character development captivated me, leaving a lingering impression of Johan's journey long after turning the last page.
I suggest this book for those who enjoy introspective narratives, post-Communist European history, and philosophical explorations of identity and society. Those intrigued by the search for meaning and the clash between personal ideals and societal changes will find this novel compelling.
******
In Search of Achilles
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
"In Search of Achilles" by Marco van den Berg Scholten.
When Johan van Geesteren, Rombouts, Erik Leeghwater, and Hink Jan Hulsecker meet, they reminisce about the past and discuss their current lives. Johan is studying English literature and living with his girlfriend in Amsterdam, while his friends are studying medicine and economics. Johan learns that their mutual friend, Achilles, has become a successful model and is popular with women. Johan received a call from his enthusiastic friend Kees, who invited him and his partner, Els, to lunch in Amsterdam the next day. They planned to meet at a restaurant near the concert hall.
Els agreed, and the next day they joined Kees and his wife, Marga, for lunch. Kees was jovial and outgoing, while Marga was more reserved. The lunch was pleasant, with friendly conversation and laughter. Roderick, a seasoned man with a deep, kind voice, assures Johan they'll speak privately later. Kees comments on Roderick, while Marga expresses worry about Kees' behavior. Johan considers involving Officer Feenstra but decides to keep an eye on things himself. Johan is approached by Roderick, who critiques Johan's writing, emphasizing the need for consistency of voice. He encourages Johan to keep writing and practicing.
"In Search of Achilles" by Marco van den Berg Scholten captivated me with its vivid portrayal of a young man's journey through a turbulent world. Johan van Geesteren, the protagonist, navigates the complexities of post-Communist Europe while grappling with personal and societal challenges. His quest for meaning and belonging in a rapidly changing landscape is both poignant and thought-provoking. Marco van den Berg Scholten's writing brings to life the atmosphere of a society in transition, filled with promise yet fraught with uncertainty. The detailed descriptions of Johan's experiences, from the boisterous student life to the introspective moments of self-doubt, create a rich tapestry that draws the reader into his world. The relationship between Johan and his best friend, Achilles, adds depth to the narrative, showcasing the enduring bond of friendship amid chaos.
I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars, and the book doesn't have any dislikes. The book delves into the complexities of identity, the pursuit of ambition, and the universal human search for meaning, creating a deeply affecting story. Scholten masterfully weaves these themes into a compelling story, keeping me engaged with slow-building tension and characters of emotional depth. The novel's lingering impact is a testament to its beautiful writing and profound themes. Including the book's editing, which is impeccable. This novel's evocative storytelling and rich character development captivated me, leaving a lingering impression of Johan's journey long after turning the last page.
I suggest this book for those who enjoy introspective narratives, post-Communist European history, and philosophical explorations of identity and society. Those intrigued by the search for meaning and the clash between personal ideals and societal changes will find this novel compelling.
******
In Search of Achilles
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Latest Review: Eternal Hero by William Grace
