TL;DR
Tropic of Cancer details Henry Miller's gritty and raw experiences in 1930s Paris, delving deep into themes of poverty, sexuality, and artistic struggle.
What is Tropic of Cancer about
Tropic of Cancer is an autobiographical novel by Henry Miller, chronicling his life in Paris during the 1930s. The book presents a vivid, often unflinching look at Miller's life as an expatriate writer, struggling to survive amidst the bohemian lifestyle. The narrative traverses the streets of Paris, capturing Miller's interactions with friends, encounters with prostitutes, and his constant battle with poverty and artistic creation. Written in a candid and provocative style, it challenges societal norms and delves deep into the human condition.
Tropic of Cancer 6 Key Takeaways
Introduction to Parisian Life
The novel begins with Henry Miller arriving in Paris, capturing the vivid and chaotic atmosphere of the city and setting the stage for his bohemian lifestyle.
Struggles with Poverty
Miller describes his constant battle with poverty, detailing the harsh realities of living on the edge and the impact it has on his mental and physical state.
Encounters with Prostitutes
A significant portion of the novel revolves around Miller's interactions with prostitutes, illustrating his complex relationship with sexuality and human connection.
Friendships and Artistic Community
Miller's relationships with fellow expatriates and artists form a crucial part of the narrative, highlighting the camaraderie and conflicts within their tight-knit community.
Reflection on Writing and Creation
Throughout the novel, Miller reflects on the nature of writing and the creative process, providing insight into his struggles and triumphs as an artist.
Confrontation with Societal Norms
Miller's provocative and candid writing style challenges societal norms, exploring themes of freedom, morality, and the human condition in raw and unfiltered terms.
Top Tropic of Cancer Quotes
- I have no money, no resources, no hopes. I am the happiest man alive.
- I need to tear free of this binding soil and fly through the air like a bird. I need to sing a new song to the world.
Who should read Tropic of Cancer?
Tropic of Cancer is ideal for readers who are interested in autobiographical novels that offer an unfiltered look into the human condition. Those intrigued by the bohemian lifestyle, artistic struggle, and candid explorations of sexuality and poverty will find this book particularly engaging.
Tropic of Cancer Best Reviews
- Norman Mailer praised Tropic of Cancer as 'a moment of revelation in American literature' for its candid and fearless exploration of taboo subjects.
- George Orwell lauded the book's authenticity and rawness, stating it 'will give you an insight into the lives of the dispossessed and marginalized that few other works can match.'
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Tropic of Cancer FAQs
What was the book Tropic of Cancer about?
Tropic of Cancer is about Henry Miller's life during the 1930s in Paris, France. It is an autobiographical novel that charts his experiences, including his interactions with friends, struggles with poverty, and encounters with prostitutes.
Is Tropic of Cancer an easy read?
Tropic of Cancer is a pretty intense read. The narrator is a complex and contradictory figure, and the book is known for its raw, unfiltered portrayal of life, which can be challenging but rewarding for readers.
Is Tropic of Cancer a movie?
Yes, Tropic of Cancer was adapted into a 1970 American drama film directed by Joseph Strick, based on Henry Miller's 1934 autobiographical novel. The film stars Rip Torn and James T.