http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/159420120X/sr=1-7/qid=1152966161/103-1855385-2423803?redirect=true

Vineland has all of these elements as well but it seems lesser because its focus appears narrower. The narrow focus makes it seems like a slighter novel than the others. But I wonder if it isn’t somewhat deeper and maybe even more original.

Can’t wait for the next one…

First, it may simply be saying give the book a chance and don’t pass judgments until it is fully savored. Under this interpretation, you can decide whether it was worth giving the book more time.

Second, the comment may be indicating that there are many layers to GR and that multiple readings are needed to unpack everything. The choice then becomes at which level one chooses to read the book.

Third, the advice may simply be the ramblings of an obsessive. Only context and more information can tell if this is accurate.

I read GR in college on my own, i.e. not as a class assignment. I was inspired to read it after attending a group read of the book and after reading Lot 49 and V, also on my own. I have read GR only once, but have jumped back to several sections many times, especiallly the section on Pokler and on Tchitcherine and the language conversion in Kirghizstan (I probably misremember the last details). Sometimes I think GR is a dense, intricate, intimidating book. Other times, I view it as a fun riff on Twentieth Centiury obsessions with technology and empire. I do think there are many levels and am implicitly endorsing the second interpretation above.

Of course, this depends on the need to balance all of life’s commitments. I think Pynchon is a demanding author, but I do not think he demands us to plunge completely into the depths of plots and historical origins as come across in his books. Rather, I think he demands us not to take the world for granted or to accept truths at face value. His books, however read, are an invaluable reminder of the need to keep thinking and living, and that probably means going beyond rereading his books over and over again.

I have a problem with that. My life is too packed to read even my favorite novels twice (I’ve only done so w/LOTR and the occasional Vonnegut), let alone spend what would amount to be several months just trying to “get” one. That’s like developing a relationship with someone. If I spend that much time on a novel, then I’m not spending enough time with my kids or my friends. Why would anyone bother? Aside from Lit students, I mean.

it’s about time for his next novel…

Chicago in the 1890′s is a great setting for a Pynchon novel. Not only does the locale shift Pynchon’s focus towards the midwest, it also captures Pynchonian themes of science, technology, and religion. 1893 was the date for the World Parliament of Religions, which took place in Chicago. Perhaps that important occassion will get a mention. I understand that there is a Pynchon family connection to Chicago, a family company that went bankrupt during the Depression.

I attempted Gravity’s Rainbow not long after and had to give up. It took about 10 years (and 3 Pynchon novels) until I picked it up again and was able to devour it. I really think you need the other “serious” Pynchon books under your belt before diving in.

I think the proper order, if you’re new, is probably The Crying of Lot 49, V., Vineland, Mason & Dixon, Gravity’s Rainbow, and Slow Learner. Slow Learner is laughable after you’ve read the others. There’s enough criticism and discussion out there now, however, that you can probably read them as you please.

A new big fat Pynchon book would be quite a gift. I’ll wait until its official before getting too excited.

If the book IS set in 1897, that puts it five years after Sofia Kovalevskaya’s death in Germany.

Lot 49 is the gentle introduction to Pynchon. You’ll only want more after you’ve read it.

Also, from the guy who started, and unfortuantely doesn’t have the energy to continue, the first Vollmann website on the internet, I want to thank you for carrying the flag. You are Bright And Risen.