61 pages • 2 hours read
Underworld
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Book Brief
827
Novel • Fiction
United States • Cold War
1997
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Underworld by Don DeLillo portrays the alienation of American society in the late 20th century through a nonlinear narrative intersecting the lives of characters like Nick Shay, who navigates personal and societal turmoil from the Cold War era to the 1990s. Sensitive topics in the book include sexual abuse, racism, and drug use.
Dark
Mysterious
Contemplative
Melancholic
Gritty
Reviews & Readership
33,310 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Don DeLillo's Underworld is lauded for its complex narrative and sweeping historical scope, capturing the American experience vividly. Critics appreciate its profound exploration of themes such as technology, culture, and politics. However, some find the non-linear structure and extensive length challenging. Overall, it is deemed a thought-provoking and ambitious work, though not easily accessible to all readers.
Who Should Read Underworld?
A reader captivated by intricate narratives and deep explorations of contemporary American life will find Underworld by Don DeLillo compelling. Fans of Thomas Pynchon's Gravity's Rainbow and David Foster Wallace's Infinite Jest will appreciate the rich tapestry of interconnected stories reflecting cultural and historical shifts.
33,310 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Klara Sax
Klara Sax
Klara is an artist whose life and career are explored through different periods, revealing her personal and artistic evolution. Her character is known for a significant artistic project in the desert and relationships that mirror her struggles with domesticity.
Manx Martin
Manx Martin
A minor criminal who views himself primarily as a provider for his family, Manx is involved in a critical event concerning a baseball. His worldview is influenced by self-delusion and his relationship with his son.
Matt Shay
Matt Shay
Nick’s younger brother, who grapples with his own disillusionment after serving in Vietnam and is marked by his experiences both during and after the war. His character is also involved with footage of the Texas Highway Killer, which he obsesses over.
827
Novel • Fiction
United States • Cold War
1997
Adult
18+ years
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