VLVL2 (12): Transitions . . .

[Tim Strzechowski]

Okay, we've come to a brief hiatus in the VL discussion, so as Toby gathers his material for concluding his discussion I will take the liberty of beginning to post a few items on the next section, which spans pp. 218 - 238.  I realize it's a bit earlier than scheduled, but there's lots to address in this section.

By the way, as we approach the two-thirds mark of the novel (and for those of you "doing the math" it comes in around p. 250 or so), it might be helpful to look back and consider what we've indeed determined about particular characters and situations thus far, what themes seem to be supported by the text, and what is our assessment of the book's literary merit at this point.

What have we established so far regarding Pynchon's satirical intent in VL?  How do we determine the stronger position?

Where do we stand in terms of P's politics at this point in the novel? We seem to argue Right and Left again and again, but which "side" seems to have the strongest textual support at this point?

How does this novel measure-up stylistically to P's previous works?  Does it demonstrate maturity?  control?  lack thereof?

Other ideas?

Tim S.

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