Review of Love and Murder
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Bose Iyokowa
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Review of Love and Murder
[Following is a volunteer review of "Love and Murder" by Irv Arenberg.]
In Love and Murder by Irv Arenberg, the intricate controversies surrounding Vincent Van Gogh's life and death are explored. Contrary to the widely accepted belief that Van Gogh took his own life, Arenberg challenges this notion after extensive research into the artist's last seventy days in Auvers-Sun-Oide, France. The narrative delves into the tumultuous existence of Vincent Van Gogh, born in Groot-Zundert, western Holland, in 1853.
Despite a troubled childhood marked by emotional hardships, vertigo, and epilepsy, Van Gogh, a determined and passionate artist, created iconic works such as "Starry Night" and "The Potato Eaters." His untimely death on July 29, 1890, resulted from an abdominal wound sustained under mysterious circumstances. The book questions whether Van Gogh's demise was a suicide, an act by Dr Gachet and his son, or the result of an encounter with boys who visited Auvers-Sun-Oise during the summer, presenting a captivating exploration of art, life, and the unresolved mysteries surrounding the artist's tragic end.
I admire the author's investigative approach, which is characterized by thorough and detailed research. The book captivates with its entertaining and engaging narrative, skillfully establishing the story's foundation. The author's use of simple and comprehensible vocabulary enhances the reading experience. One particularly intriguing character is Vincent Van Gogh, who, despite facing significant life challenges, remained remarkably passionate and determined. On page 105, Van Gogh expressed his resilient spirit in a letter, stating, "The more ugly, old, vicious, ill, and poor I get, the more I want to take my revenge by producing brilliant, well-arranged, resplendent colour." Van Gogh's ability to turn adversity into a creative drive and transform himself is truly inspiring. The book is recommended for those interested in Western art and anyone curious about the circumstances surrounding the artist's death.
I harbour a strong dislike for the reality that, during Vincent's life, those around him failed to demonstrate love, leaving him devoid of parental acceptance and affection. He endured the perception of being a tormented soul, labelled as a mad artist by those in his midst. Additionally, my disdain extends to the posthumous actions of Dr. Gachet and his son, Paul Jr., who sold all of Vincent's paintings with the agenda of distorting the truth and misleading art historians. Despite facing setbacks, Vincent transformed adversity into exquisite paintings, showcasing an unwavering passion for his craft. The writer admirably investigated the enigmatic life of this iconic artist, presenting a book that is exceptionally well-written, well-edited, and devoid of errors.
Given the extensive research, engaging narrative, and thought-provoking exploration of Vincent Van Gogh's life and controversies, coupled with the author's adept investigative style, I gave this book a rating of 5 out of 5 stars. The book not only provides deep insights into Van Gogh's character but also challenges historical narratives, creating a compelling and emotionally resonant reading experience. Despite expressing a dislike for certain aspects, these elements contribute to the book's complexity and depth, elevating its impact. The exceptional writing, thorough editing, and absence of errors further solidify the book's merit. Overall, it stands out as an outstanding and enriching read for those fascinated by art history and the enigmatic life of Vincent Van Gogh.
******
Love and Murder
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
In Love and Murder by Irv Arenberg, the intricate controversies surrounding Vincent Van Gogh's life and death are explored. Contrary to the widely accepted belief that Van Gogh took his own life, Arenberg challenges this notion after extensive research into the artist's last seventy days in Auvers-Sun-Oide, France. The narrative delves into the tumultuous existence of Vincent Van Gogh, born in Groot-Zundert, western Holland, in 1853.
Despite a troubled childhood marked by emotional hardships, vertigo, and epilepsy, Van Gogh, a determined and passionate artist, created iconic works such as "Starry Night" and "The Potato Eaters." His untimely death on July 29, 1890, resulted from an abdominal wound sustained under mysterious circumstances. The book questions whether Van Gogh's demise was a suicide, an act by Dr Gachet and his son, or the result of an encounter with boys who visited Auvers-Sun-Oise during the summer, presenting a captivating exploration of art, life, and the unresolved mysteries surrounding the artist's tragic end.
I admire the author's investigative approach, which is characterized by thorough and detailed research. The book captivates with its entertaining and engaging narrative, skillfully establishing the story's foundation. The author's use of simple and comprehensible vocabulary enhances the reading experience. One particularly intriguing character is Vincent Van Gogh, who, despite facing significant life challenges, remained remarkably passionate and determined. On page 105, Van Gogh expressed his resilient spirit in a letter, stating, "The more ugly, old, vicious, ill, and poor I get, the more I want to take my revenge by producing brilliant, well-arranged, resplendent colour." Van Gogh's ability to turn adversity into a creative drive and transform himself is truly inspiring. The book is recommended for those interested in Western art and anyone curious about the circumstances surrounding the artist's death.
I harbour a strong dislike for the reality that, during Vincent's life, those around him failed to demonstrate love, leaving him devoid of parental acceptance and affection. He endured the perception of being a tormented soul, labelled as a mad artist by those in his midst. Additionally, my disdain extends to the posthumous actions of Dr. Gachet and his son, Paul Jr., who sold all of Vincent's paintings with the agenda of distorting the truth and misleading art historians. Despite facing setbacks, Vincent transformed adversity into exquisite paintings, showcasing an unwavering passion for his craft. The writer admirably investigated the enigmatic life of this iconic artist, presenting a book that is exceptionally well-written, well-edited, and devoid of errors.
Given the extensive research, engaging narrative, and thought-provoking exploration of Vincent Van Gogh's life and controversies, coupled with the author's adept investigative style, I gave this book a rating of 5 out of 5 stars. The book not only provides deep insights into Van Gogh's character but also challenges historical narratives, creating a compelling and emotionally resonant reading experience. Despite expressing a dislike for certain aspects, these elements contribute to the book's complexity and depth, elevating its impact. The exceptional writing, thorough editing, and absence of errors further solidify the book's merit. Overall, it stands out as an outstanding and enriching read for those fascinated by art history and the enigmatic life of Vincent Van Gogh.
******
Love and Murder
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Latest Review: The Unfakeable Code® by Tony Jeton Selimi
