What We've Been Reading 2025 (ish)

'Officers and Gentlemen' is the second novel in Evelyn Waugh's 'Sword of Honour' trilogy, following Guy Crouchback's wartime experiences. The story delves into the chaotic realities of military life, exposing the incompetence and absurdity within the British Army. Guy's romantic ideals of war clash with the bureaucratic and often farcical nature of his service. Set against the backdrop of World War II, the novel satirizes the British upper class and their struggles to adapt to modern warfare. Waugh's sharp wit and keen observations create a poignant and humorous portrayal of a changing world. The book explores themes of disillusionment, duty, and the loss of traditional values.

The Road is set in a world that has been devastated by an unspecified cataclysmic event, resulting in the extinction of nearly all life on Earth. The story follows an unnamed father and his young son as they travel south along the road, carrying their meager possessions and a pistol with only two bullets. The father, suffering from a worsening respiratory condition, is determined to protect his son from the dangers of their new world, including cannibalistic marauders. Along their journey, they encounter various survivors, some of whom are cruel and others who show kindness. The novel explores themes of love, survival, and the preservation of humanity in a world devoid of hope. Ultimately, the father's health fails, and he dies, but not before ensuring his son's safety with a new family who may offer a chance for a better future.

Blood Meridian is a historical novel that depicts the brutal reality of the American West in the mid-19th century. The story follows a 14-year-old runaway from Tennessee, known as 'the kid', who joins the Glanton gang, a historical group of scalp hunters. The gang, led by John Joel Glanton and the enigmatic Judge Holden, is contracted to kill and scalp Native Americans but soon devolves into indiscriminate violence against various groups. The novel explores themes of brutality, the loss of innocence, and the harsh realities of human nature, with Judge Holden serving as a central figure embodying philosophical and sadistic elements. The book is known for its unflinching portrayal of violence and its allegorical exploration of human existence.

The Buried Giant is set in a mythical post-Arthurian England, where a strange mist causes widespread forgetfulness. The story follows Axl and Beatrice, an elderly couple, as they embark on a journey to visit their son who lives in a distant village. Along the way, they encounter various characters, including Saxon warriors, monks, and figures from Arthurian legend. The novel delves into themes of memory, love, and the consequences of forgetting the past, highlighting the complexities of human nature and the dangers of ignorance. It blends elements of fantasy, historical fiction, and philosophical reflection to create a narrative that is both a tender love story and a profound exploration of collective memory and its impact on society.

Death Comes for the Archbishop is a novel by Willa Cather, published in 1927. It is based on the lives of Jean-Baptiste Lamy and Joseph Projectus Machebeuf, who worked to establish a Catholic diocese in New Mexico. The story follows the journey of Bishop Jean Marie Latour and Father Joseph Vaillant as they navigate the challenges of their mission, interact with diverse cultures, and reflect on the complexities of faith and colonialism.

Abbe Claude Barthes' "A Forest of Symbols" offers a captivating collection of mystagogical interpretations of the liturgy. The book brings together a wealth of insightful reflections from various periods and authors, creating a tapestry of spiritual understanding. Barthes' work is not primarily a theological or historical study but rather a florilegium, showcasing the beauty and depth of the liturgical tradition. It explores the symbolic richness of the liturgy, revealing the profound spiritual meanings embedded within its rites and actions. "A Forest of Symbols" serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking a deeper appreciation for the spiritual significance of the liturgy.

The novel follows the interweaving paths of three central characters: Llewelyn Moss, who stumbles upon a large sum of money at a drug deal gone wrong; Anton Chigurh, a ruthless and principled hitman hired to retrieve the money; and Sheriff Ed Tom Bell, who reflects on the changing world and the moral decay he witnesses. The story is a harrowing exploration of greed, violence, and the consequences of one's actions, set in the harsh landscape of West Texas in 1980. It delves into themes of fate vs. free will, good vs. evil, and the ties of love, blood, and duty that shape destinies.

In Stephen King's 'The Shining,' Jack Torrance takes a job as the winter caretaker of the Overlook Hotel, hoping to rekindle his writing career and reconnect with his family. However, the hotel has a dark history and malevolent forces that begin to prey on Jack's sanity. As the isolation and supernatural influences intensify, Jack descends into madness, terrorizing his wife and son. The novel explores themes of isolation, addiction, and the destructive power of the past. King masterfully builds tension and dread, creating a chilling and unforgettable tale of psychological horror.

Set in a dystopian future, 'Klara and the Sun' follows the story of Klara, an Artificial Friend (AF) who is purchased by a mother for her ailing daughter, Josie. Klara, powered by solar energy, develops a deep bond with Josie and becomes obsessed with the Sun, which she believes has the power to save Josie's life. The novel delves into themes of loneliness, the nature of consciousness, and the societal implications of genetic engineering and artificial intelligence. Through Klara's observations and interactions, the book explores the human condition and the complexities of love, faith, and sacrifice in a world marked by social inequality and technological advancements.