John Huston, Part Two: 1975-1987 (The Old Man is Still Alive, Part 15)

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.

Published in 1952, Wise Blood is Flannery O'Connor's first novel and a masterpiece of allegory and farce. The story revolves around Hazel Motes, a twenty-two-year-old veteran who returns to find his family home in ruins. He founds the Church Without Christ, advocating a humanistic reliance on self rather than God. Motes's journey is marked by encounters with various characters, including the 'blind' street preacher Asa Hawks, his daughter Sabbath Lily, and Enoch Emery, a young man with 'wise blood. ' The novel explores themes of spiritual truth, false prophets, and the search for redemption in a world characterized by sin, guilt, and judgment.