The Golden Gate
The Golden Gate
Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Adult | Published in 1991
Book Brief
320
Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction
San Francisco • 1980s
1991
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Golden Gate by Vikram Seth transposes the characters and action of Pushkin's Eugene Onegin into contemporary California, following a group of well-off yuppie friends in San Francisco in 1980. The plot centers on the romantic and philosophical lives of John, Liz, Ed, Janet, and Phil as they navigate relationships, personal fulfillment, and activism, written entirely in a complex rhymed verse form.
Humorous
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
4,930 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Vikram Seth's The Golden Gate is lauded for its innovative use of verse and vivid portrayal of 1980s Californian life. Critics praise its wit, character depth, and rhythmic elegance. However, some find the verse format limiting to emotional connection and narrative depth. Overall, it stands out as a unique and intellectually engaging read.
Who Should Read The Golden Gate?
Readers who delight in lyrical narratives with a contemporary twist, akin to Eugene Onegin by Pushkin, will enjoy Vikram Seth's The Golden Gate. This novel in verse captivates with its wit and insight into 1980s California life, appealing to those who appreciate the harmonious blend of poetry and storytelling found in classics and modern literature alike.
4,930 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
320
Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction
San Francisco • 1980s
1991
Adult
18+ years
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