A Fan's Notes by Frederick Exley (Book Review)

In 'Looking Backward: 2000-1887', Edward Bellamy presents a vision of a future socialist utopia through the eyes of Julian West, a young Bostonian who falls into a hypnotic sleep in 1887 and awakens in the year 2000. The novel describes a society where industry is nationally owned, goods are distributed equally, and there is no need for money, police, military, or lawyers. Bellamy's vision includes advanced technologies such as radio, television, motion pictures, and credit cards. The novel is a critical examination of 19th-century capitalism and advocates for a society based on equality, cooperation, and the brotherhood of man.

The book is a collection of short stories, with the central story 'The Loneliness of the Long-Distance Runner' narrated by Colin Smith, a rebellious teenager from a poor Nottingham background. Smith is sentenced to a Borstal after committing a crime and finds escape and reflection through long-distance running. The story explores themes of social alienation, class divisions, and the protagonist's defiance against the system. Other stories in the collection, such as 'Uncle Ernest' and 'The Decline and Fall of Frankie Buller,' also delve into the lives of working-class characters and their struggles with loneliness, poverty, and societal expectations.

First published in 1936, 'How to Win Friends and Influence People' by Dale Carnegie is a timeless guide to improving interpersonal skills. The book is divided into four main sections: Six Ways to Make People Like You, Twelve Ways to Win People to Your Way of Thinking, and Nine Ways to Change People Without Giving Offense or Arousing Resentment. Carnegie's principles emphasize the importance of genuine interest in others, active listening, and avoiding criticism and argument. The book offers practical advice on how to build strong relationships, communicate effectively, and influence others by aligning their self-interest with yours. It has been a cornerstone of personal development and business success for generations.

In this book, Max Weber argues that the Protestant work ethic, especially as influenced by Calvinism, played a significant role in the development of modern capitalism. Weber posits that the concept of a 'calling' and the this-worldly asceticism of Protestantism fostered a culture of hard work, thrift, and the accumulation of wealth, which were crucial for the emergence of capitalist culture. He contrasts this with the traditional economic attitudes and the medieval monastic ideal of other-worldly asceticism. The book also explores how these religious ideas influenced the development of a rational and disciplined approach to economic activity, which became a hallmark of modern capitalism.

Frederick Exley's "A Fan's Notes" is a semi-autobiographical novel that delves into the author's struggles with alcoholism, mental illness, and his obsession with the New York Giants. The book is a raw and unflinching portrayal of failure and disillusionment, exploring the complexities of the American Dream. Exley's prose is both brutally honest and surprisingly lyrical, capturing the pain and absurdity of his experiences. The novel's exploration of masculinity, societal expectations, and the search for meaning resonates with readers even today. Its unflinching honesty and powerful prose make it a compelling and unforgettable read.

Set in the landscapes of Hollywood, Las Vegas, and the Mojave Desert, 'Play It As It Lays' is a searing portrait of a woman and a society in crisis. The novel follows Maria Wyeth, a former actress whose life is marked by her failed career, a troubled marriage, and the institutionalization of her daughter. Through sparse and haunting prose, Didion explores themes of nihilism, the superficiality of Hollywood culture, and the personal disintegration of Maria as she navigates a world that seems devoid of meaning and purpose.