Holy Book of the Beard

[RICHARD ROMEO]

Here's that other Pynchon mention in 3/17 NYTBR-for _The Holy Book of the 
Beard_- by Duff Brenna:



"His real kindred spirit is Thomas Pynchon-the Pynchon of Vineland, 
perhaps, but Pynchon nonetheless...And like Vineland Mr. Brenna's book 
provides a pleasurable, humorous narrative filled with erudite "in" 
jokes.  The hero is a 22-year old post-hippie proto-slacker who steams 
into San Diego on his motorcycle in search of squalor and inspiration".



On another note there are so many parallells in IJ to TRP's work-why 
wouldn't we discuss it.  I defy anyone to find another book by another 
author that so closely stands the comparison.  I would agree with Mr. 
Mackin that IJ is not a rip-roaring laugh at all times but sensitive, 
horrific, etc. as well-it makes for  interesting contrasts. It's also 
missing the sex preoccupations in Pynchon's works. (for the good IMHO)   



Rich

NYC