Paperback, 159 pages
Published Oct. 4, 2001 by Penguin Books Ltd.
Baldwin's haunting and controversial second novel is his most sustained treatment of sexuality, and a classic of gay literature. In a 1950s Paris swarming with expatriates and characterized by dangerous liaisons and hidden violence, an American finds himself unable to repress his impulses, despite his determination to live the conventional life he envisions for himself. After meeting and proposing to a young woman, he falls into a lengthy affair with an Italian bartender and is confounded and tortured by his sexual identity as he oscillates between the two.
Examining the mystery of love and passion in an intensely imagined narrative, Baldwin creates a moving and complex story of death and desire that is revelatory in its insight.
A review will be written once I’ve been reborn from my current state.
I cannot believe I haven't read anything by Baldwin until now. This was stunning. Difficult to read at times, but really truly spectacular.
Wow, I don't really know where to begin. I found the story to be enthralling and tragic sort of slice of life. It is undoubtedly a story about one's struggle with their sexuality, but that was not really the parts of the story that resonated with me. This is a story about one man's two relationships, and the pains of those relationships. It was those struggles that I related so closely to and what made me love this book so much. The characters are SO well developed, Giovanni in particular. They all felt so real and raw. I don't know what else to say; I can't recommend this book enough.
Of note, I listened to this on audiobook and it was very well voiced. I highly recommend it.
Maybe not the one to read if you're feeling blue, but this is so real and tragic.
