Monsters

Dederer's book is perfectly suited to the moment. The subtitle highlights the strength of the work: "A Fan's Dilemma." When we think about "great artists" whose work enthralls us but personal lives repel us, it is we, the fans, who have to work out what weight we will give these revelations. I don't think it is too much of a spoiler to say that Dederer delves into what these questions about the "great artists" necessarily force us to ask questions about ourselves, as well. A thoughtful, engaging book about a crucial topic.

I'm very interested in the concept of this book, but after reading the first chapter, I see this isn't going to work for me. There's too much focus on memoir-ish info and descriptions/analysis of the art itself. I haven't seen Annie Hall or Manhattan. I've seen Rosemary's Baby, but I don't remember anything. I'm more interested in a deep dive into the ethical question here and less interested in the specific artist/art.