The quantity theory of insanity
Book • 1991
Will Self's 'The Quantity Theory of Insanity' is a 1993 collection of short stories that explores themes of mental disturbance, social alienation and dark satire across a variety of characters and scenarios.
The stories often blend surrealism with trenchant observations about contemporary life, employing inventive language and grotesque humour.
Self established his reputation with this collection for incisive portrayals of misanthropy, addiction and the limits of conventional morality.
The work showcases his willingness to experiment with narrative voice and form while interrogating societal norms.
It remains an influential early work in his oeuvre, referenced as a predecessor to later thematic continuities in his fiction.
The stories often blend surrealism with trenchant observations about contemporary life, employing inventive language and grotesque humour.
Self established his reputation with this collection for incisive portrayals of misanthropy, addiction and the limits of conventional morality.
The work showcases his willingness to experiment with narrative voice and form while interrogating societal norms.
It remains an influential early work in his oeuvre, referenced as a predecessor to later thematic continuities in his fiction.
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Kirsty Wark
Will Self
Will Self on The Quantity Theory of Morality
