The Vivisector
The Vivisector
Book Brief
Beta567
Novel • Fiction
Sydney, Australia • 20th century
1970
Adult
18+ years
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
1,224 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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 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.
1,224 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Published in 1970, The Vivisector was shortlisted for the Nobel Prize in Literature the year Patrick White received the award, in 1973.
Patrick White drew on his own artistic experiences and insights when crafting the complex character of Hurtle Duffield, the novel's protagonist.
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The Vivisector is often regarded as one of White's most challenging works due to its deep exploration of the nature and cost of artistic genius.
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567
Novel • Fiction
Sydney, Australia • 20th century
1970
Adult
18+ years
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