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241
Novel • Fiction
New Orleans, Louisiana • 1960s
1961
Adult
18+ years
In Walker Percy’s debut novel, The Moviegoer, published in 1961, the protagonist Binx Bolling, a young stockbroker from a New Orleans suburb, embarks on a quest for meaning and authenticity amidst the chaos of Carnival and Mardi Gras. Struggling with life's ordinariness and influenced by his past war trauma, he grapples with his family's dynamics, particularly his cousin Kate's deteriorating mental health, while seeking connection through movies and television. The book includes discussions of thoughts of suicide and despair.
Contemplative
Melancholic
Bittersweet
Mysterious
Nostalgic
30,771 ratings
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Walker Percy's The Moviegoer is lauded for its introspective depth and philosophical undertones, capturing the existential malaise of the 1960s. Critics praise its poetic prose and compelling character study. However, some readers find its pacing slow and the plot meandering. Overall, it remains a thought-provoking exploration of modern disconnection.
A reader who enjoys philosophical introspection and a poignant exploration of existentialism would appreciate Walker Percy's The Moviegoer. Fans of Albert Camus' The Stranger and J.D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye will find similar themes of searching for meaning and identity.
30,771 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Kate Cutrer
A 25-year-old cousin of Binx, marked by her wealth and complicated emotional history. She struggles with instability and seeks solace in her relationship with Binx.
Emily Cutrer
Binx's aunt who took an active role in his upbringing after his father's death. She has a complicated relationship with both Binx and her stepdaughter Kate.
Sharon Kincaid
Binx's secretary, whom he pursues romantically. Despite spending time together, Sharon remains emotionally distant due to her engagement to another man.
Binx’s Mother
Remarried after the death of Binx’s father, she is depicted as emotionally resilient, with a large family from her second marriage. Her stories about Binx's father play a role in revealing more about Binx's inherited traits.
Lonnie Smith
Binx’s half-brother, a 14-year-old boy with significant health issues who is bound to a wheelchair. He shares a close bond with Binx and enjoys going to the movies.
241
Novel • Fiction
New Orleans, Louisiana • 1960s
1961
Adult
18+ years
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