The judgment of Paris : with a new introduction by the author

by Gore Vidal

Paper Book, 1952

Status

Available

Publication

New York : Carroll & Graf Publishers, 2007, c1952.

Description

The fast and furious hedonistic world of the jet-set commuting between the glamour centres of Europe is the setting for this famous novel by one of the twentieth century's most remarkable writers. Philip Warren is a personable young American who moves amongst the international demi-gods of wealth and status in search of himself and a future which will satisfy his part cynical, part romantic outlook.

User reviews

LibraryThing member wirkman
The best of Gore Vidal's earlier novels, a foray into Huxleyian comedy. Very well done, with many great comic moments, a glorious opening, and a fine epiphany at the end. Highly recommended.
LibraryThing member Cathyvil
Up until the last 75 pages of this book I was enraptured. But the end left me bored. It felt very random to me and thrown together. All in all still an interesting read and exceedingly bold material for a book published in the early 1950s. Vidal's prose really is a joy to read and it makes me sad
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that we lost him last year.
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LibraryThing member LARA335
This sounded fascinating: a privileged young American taking a year out in '50's Europe. And written by Gore Vidal, who was always worth watching on T.V. for his intelligence, acerbic wit and knowledge. But, gosh, was this a dull slog.

The protagonist doesn't seem to think, reflect or feel very
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much, just observes the mostly bizarre people he comes across. He didn't care, so I couldn't.

Gore can obviously write, and liked to show off his knowledge of ancient classics. I just assume this was a very early work and that his later books were more entertaining and revealing, but this one has put me off bothering to find out.
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LibraryThing member dbsovereign
Interesting early Vidal written prior to his becoming as bitter as he is now. Lots of colorful characters and lessons in life.
LibraryThing member DinadansFriend
A novel not very memorable, about the element of choice in emotional experience. There is a certain amount of imagery from the Iliad, but the book made no great impression. It is set in contemporary society.

Language

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