The Corrections

In a sentence, this book felt like watching the slow suffocating misery of first world problems play out in front of you. That is the dispassionate spectator in me not finding a connection in the characters in this book that made me care for their issues. That summation sits in stark contrast to the pull of Franzen’s books for me. Franzen’s greatest skill is being able to illustrate through various scenarios what it looks like when expectations coming crashing into the steel reinforced brick wall of reality. Franzen is a master at capturing the unspoken grey area of what it means to exist. He creates characters whose struggles you understand but struggle to feel sorry for. Each of his novels could represent the Great American Novel in that they pop the balloon on the idea of the Great American Dream. Specifically, in how all the endless work and riches don’t satisfy the most basic human needs and desires. Moreover, in what goes unsaid by the characters, oceans of dissatisfaction fill the emptiness. I enjoyed “Freedom” so much more. Where I could not put that one down, I was ready for “The Corrections” to end at barely a hundred pages in. That said, I can see why it was such a draw for many. Well written and layered with pages of drama, subtext, through lines, and complexity to keep the most experienced reader engaged. Franzen’s novels have real meat on their bones that stick with you long after you’ve put them down. Even if some characters and sections don’t quite fit your palate.

I loved The Corrections and looked forward to reading every evening. I’m sorry now if finished and that they’re not part of my world any longer! This is a raw look at what really happens between family members and it’s easy to recognize those you know- I’m so glad to have found this author!

I have rarely felt that a book was so technically and thematically brilliant, but also so raw and unnerving. I can’t say I “enjoyed” this book because it is quite frankly depressing and almost “too real.” But I’ve read a lot of Franzen and he is truly an incredible writer (e.g. precise vocabulary choice, beautiful prose, relevant cultural themes, detailed character/plot development, etc.). And so while I absolutely appreciate this novel as the outstanding literary work that it is, it was often a very gut-wrenching and sad read for me. If you are looking for a book that truly and painfully reflects some of the hard and dark struggles/choices in life, this is it. If you’re looking for a story with fun and joy, or light/fast reading, this is NOT it.

Had a few LOL moments but otherwise, Meh. Quit 1/3 through

If I ever got married, they'ed have to read this first

Franzen is a great writer but his books are excessive in length and expression. It seems as if he is trying to prove how smart he is instead of just telling an interesting story for our enjoyment...EAF

One of the better writers of his generation, Franzen explores life in this must read.

This is a painfully truthful book about life (as most anyone knows it) that you can't turn away from.

This is a book that generates strong emotions, you will either love it, or you will hate it. Either way, I have yet to meet someone who didn't have strong feelings about it. My view: I think this is my favorite book. There aren't a lot of books that keep me thinking about them months and years later. I identified very strongly with the Lamberts, even though they are nothing like me, they were still so familiar. Incidentally, another book that made me feel this way was Franzen's other book, 'Freedom'. In any case, my wife hated it and couldn't finish it. Only time I've seen her put down a book.

Deep.