Spectator Out Loud: Ian Thomson, Patrick Kidd, Mike Cormack, Ursula Buchan and Richard Bratby

Malcolm Lowry's Under the Volcano is a complex and atmospheric novel that follows the descent into alcoholism and despair of Geoffrey Firmin, a British consul in Mexico. The novel's non-linear structure and its use of symbolism create a powerful and haunting reading experience. Lowry's masterful use of language and imagery creates a vivid and unforgettable portrayal of a man's self-destruction. Under the Volcano explores themes of addiction, alienation, and the search for meaning in a seemingly meaningless world. Its enduring appeal lies in its powerful storytelling and its exploration of profound psychological themes.

Irvine Welsh's 'Filth' follows Detective Sergeant Bruce Robertson, a morally bankrupt and self-destructive character, as he navigates the seedy underbelly of Edinburgh. The novel explores themes of corruption, identity, and the destructive nature of manipulation, all set against the backdrop of a city's dark secrets. Through Bruce's chaotic life, Welsh delves into the consequences of addiction and the blurring of moral boundaries.

Published in 1993, 'Trainspotting' is Irvine Welsh's first novel and is set in the late 1980s in Leith, Edinburgh. The book is a collection of short stories narrated in a mix of Scots, Scottish English, and British English. It follows the lives of Mark Renton and his friends, including Sick Boy, Begbie, and Spud, as they navigate heroin addiction, violent behavior, and personal struggles. The novel is known for its dark humor, vivid characters, and non-linear narrative structure. It has been praised for its raw and honest portrayal of addiction and its impact on individuals and communities.

American Psycho is a black comedy horror novel that critiques the superficiality and materialism of 1980s Wall Street culture through the character of Patrick Bateman, a charismatic but sociopathic investment banker. The novel explores themes of identity, consumerism, and the blurring of reality and fantasy. It is known for its graphic violence and dark humor, offering a commentary on the excesses of capitalist society.