BOOK BRIEF

The Vivisector

Patrick White
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The Vivisector

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1970

Book Brief

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Patrick White

The Vivisector

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1970
Book Details
Pages

567

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Sydney, Australia • 20th century

Publication Year

1970

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In The Vivisector, Patrick White explores the life of an artist named Hurtle Duffield, following his journey from childhood to old age. The novel delves into his relationships, struggles, and the sacrifices he makes for art. Through Duffield's experiences, White examines themes of creativity, obsession, and the complexities of human desires.

Mysterious

Dark

Contemplative

Melancholic

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.2

1,224 ratings

76%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Vivisector by Patrick White is celebrated for its deep exploration of an artist's psyche, with rich character development and profound thematic elements. Critiques often highlight its dense prose and complex narrative as challenging yet rewarding. Some readers find its pacing slow, but the novel's introspective nature and insight into the human condition are widely praised.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Vivisector?

A reader who appreciates The Vivisector by Patrick White enjoys complex character studies and intricate prose. Fans of Virginia Woolf's Mrs. Dalloway or James Joyce's Ulysses might find this exploration of art, obsession, and identity compelling due to its psychological depth and thematic richness.

4.2

1,224 ratings

76%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

567

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Sydney, Australia • 20th century

Publication Year

1970

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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