Almost done with M&D

[andrew at cee.hw.ac.uk]

R. ed Bug writes:
> Responding to Joe's disappointment, I have to say that I enjoyed M&D
> *much* more the second time. Give it time.

I agree. I think it bears close and repeated scrutiny. And, like
Vineland, it is easy to miss the quality of the writing, particularly
when, as is the case with M&D, there is a natural imperative to
scramble towards the end of that line.

In particular, my favourite experience so far has been inhabiting the
thoughts of two such well-developed characters at such length.
Repeatedly, we are presented with scenes which render the details of
their interactions, intentions, misunderstandings, insights and
illusions, trust and deception (mutual and self), with a clarity and a
faithfulness to human nature which is astounding.

Also, like Chris, I love the songs, not to mention Timothy Tox.
Brilliantly penned puns, rigourously rhythmical rhyming, yet still
managing either to move the narrative forward or cast a critical
glance over the current scene, thereby unburdening the narrator of an
otherwise onerous and officious duty. Ditto for the framing device.


Andrew Dinn
-----------
We drank the blood of our enemies.
The blood of our friends, we cherished.