After burying his father, Nathan Zuckerman, who was in his late teens, suddenly suffered from an undiagnosable pain that spread from his shoulders and neck to his torso, and even his mind was occupied by this pain. No doctor knew where his ailment came from. He had to rely on painkillers to survive, could not continue writing, and even his movements were hampered by pain. Bored, he began to let his mind wander, recalling his failed marriage and family relationships. Outflanked by extreme nostalgia and the desire to conquer his illness, Zuckerman determined to return to his alma mater, the University of Chicago, where he would study medicine... Rashness and meticulousness, lyricism and irony blended into one, admonishment and confession running through it, with a knowing, benevolent authority.
Featuring some of the funniest and most brutal scenes in Philip Roth's novels, this is a grand comedy about illness.
Reader comments
This book truly shows a man's struggle against disease, and also deeply explores topics such as family and marriage. The author's description is delicate and nuanced, making people feel for themselves. Just like what is said in the book, "When a man is sick, he always thinks of his mother." This sentence is true and touching. This book is not only a comedy about illness, but also a profound insight into life. It is worth reading.
This book truly shows a man's struggle against disease, and also deeply explores topics such as family and marriage. The author's description is delicate and nuanced, making people feel for themselves. Just like what is said in the book, "When a man is sick, he always thinks of his mother." This sentence is true and touching. This book is not only a comedy about illness, but also a profound insight into life. It is worth reading.