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Sep 06, 2012THOMAS J MAY rated this title 4 out of 5 stars
Very interesting Russian novel, Gogol's narration is quite characteristic. He reminds the reader of his presence throughout the tale of Chichikov, interjecting praises of Russia and troikas, the open road, and plenty of insightful musings on social relations. Reminded me mostly of Sterne's "Tristram Shandy," though the well-written translator's introduction rules out Sterne's influence. Also reminded me of Rabelais in humor and the long lists. I think I had a tough time getting into the book, but I know it really picked up and hooked me with a great passage in the 7th chapter on the fate of writers who pander to mass opinion vs. those who try to speak truthfully about their society, warts and all. From there on out, I felt for the man, and enjoyed his perspective. We had quite a few laughs. A really good work.