Invisible Man
Ralph Ellison
610 pages
NATIONAL BOOK AWARD WINNER • NATIONAL BESTSELLER • In this deeply compelling novel and epic milestone of American literature, a nameless narrator tells his story from the basement lair of the Invisible Man he imagines himself to be. One of The Atlantic’s Great American Novels of the Past 100 Years He describes growing up in a Black community in the South, attending a Negro college from which he is expelled, moving to New York and becoming the chief spokesman of the Harlem branch of "the Brotherhood," before retreating amid violence and confusion. Originally published in 1952 as the first novel by a then unknown author, it remained on the bestseller list for sixteen weeks and established Ralph Ellison as one of the key writers of the century. The book is a passionate and witty tour de force of style, strongly influenced by T.S. Eliot's The Waste Land, James Joyce, and Dostoevsky.
This book explores the profound theme of invisibility in society, highlighting how people can overlook the humanity of others. It's a powerful read that delves into identity and social issues.
This book explores the profound theme of invisibility in society, highlighting how people can overlook the humanity of others. It's a powerful reflection on identity and social injustice.
Ralph Ellison's novel delves deep into the complexities of race and individuality, making it a profound read that resonates with many.
This novel stands out with its powerful symbolism, which may be challenging to decipher for some, but for others, like me, it enhances the overall experience.