The Mezzanine
The Mezzanine
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1986
Book Brief
144
Novel • Fiction
Office Building • 1980s
1986
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Mezzanine by Nicholson Baker, written in a stream-of-consciousness style, delves into the inner thoughts of Howie, a white-collar office worker during his lunch break in the 1980s. As he rides the escalator, goes to the bathroom, and purchases new shoelaces, Howie's reflections on mundane office life reveal deeper insights into the complexities of modern existence and the impact of capitalism.
Contemplative
Humorous
Nostalgic
Reviews & Readership
9,815 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Nicholson Baker's The Mezzanine captivates with its detailed exploration of mundane activities, offering a refreshing perspective on everyday life. Critics laud its inventive prose and keen observations, though some find its minutiae overwhelming. A unique literary experiment, the novel's charm lies in its ability to elevate the ordinary.
Who Should Read The Mezzanine?
Readers who appreciate meticulous attention to detail and enjoy introspective reflections on everyday life would find The Mezzanine by Nicholson Baker captivating. Fans of the observational style in Mrs. Dalloway by Virginia Woolf or the intricate inner monologues of Ulysses by James Joyce will relate to Baker's narrative.
9,815 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
144
Novel • Fiction
Office Building • 1980s
1986
Adult
18+ years
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