A review by mmcloe
Vineland by Thomas Pynchon

adventurous challenging funny informative lighthearted mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.75

Funniest book I've read in a long time - still thinking about the Deleuze and Guattari music book gag.

The more I read Pynchon, the more I appreciate his almost scholarly understanding of the way that white heterosexuality structures so much of the political and social craziness of the United States. EVERYTHING is about sex and everything turns straight guys on, it's really quite fascinating. 

Besides that, an excellent read about the 80s and how capitalism absorbs and morphs radical leftist movements to serve the needs of a government in cahoots with capital.