“Hi all, I am looking for a book on the similar lines which has been published in 21st century basically portraying the transformation of a good leader to the darker side. Any recommendations?”
“In its treatment of imperialism and individual experience, Heart of Darkness is on many levels a story about ambiguity. Thus, Marlow’s use of language is at the very least thematic. Throughout the book, words assume a bizarre, almost fetishistic power: “ivory,” for example, becomes almost more concrete than the elephant tusks themselves. The name “Kurtz” also takes on a life of its own, as it comes to stand for a set of legends and rumors rather than an actual man. Marlow becomes suspicious of words, as they threaten to overtake and distort the meaning they are supposed to convey. On the one hand, I think words fail to reflect reality adequately, and reality is often so paradoxical that the words don’t exist to describe it; but, on the other hand, words sometimes take on an independent life of their own. Marlow’s vague terminology, in addition to possessing a lyrical beauty, helps him to negotiate the dual threats of language.”
“I have recently started a group that plans to discuss this novel as well other prominent works of fiction:Best English-Language Fiction of the Twentieth CenturyA new group centered on a composite list of the best English-language fiction of the twentieth century. Please give it a look, join up and invite your friends!http://www.shelfari.com/groups/46898/about”
“The fact that Conrad wasn't a native English speaker makes the beautiful language of this book that much more amazing.”
“A most harrowing account of a mans descent into the wild, both geographically and mentally. Beautifully written, the prose my be to dense for some, but those who perservere will be richly rewarded with one of the finest novels of all time”
“I read this book as often as I can, and it always feels like the very first time I read it; fascinating, evocative, powerful, and sad...”
“One of the most powerful stories I ever read!”
