In 'A Sport and a Pastime,' James Salter masterfully weaves a tale of obsession, passion, and the fleeting nature of love set against the backdrop of 1960s France. The story follows the intense affair between an American man and a beautiful French woman, exploring the depths of their desire and the complexities of their lives. With lyrical prose and evocative imagery, Salter captures the essence of both joy and melancholy in human relationships. As their romance unfolds, the reader is left to ponder the delicate balance between freedom and commitment. This captivating narrative invites you to reflect on the moments that define our existence and the choices that shape our paths.
By James Salter
Published: 2006
"There are moments in life that suspend time, where love and desire intertwine, revealing the essence of our fleeting existence."
"As nearly perfect as any American fiction I know," is how Reynolds Price (The New York Times) described this classic that has been a favorite of readers, both here and in Europe, for almost forty years. Set in provincial France in the 1960s, James Salter's A Sport and a Pastime is the intensely carnal story—part shocking reality, part feverish dream —of a love affair between a footloose Yale dropout and a young French girl. There is the seen and the unseen—and pages that burn with a rare intensity.
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“There are moments in life that suspend time, where love and desire intertwine, revealing the essence of our fleeting existence.”
A Sport and a Pastime
By James Salter
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
James Salter was an acclaimed American novelist, short story writer, and essayist known for his lyrical prose and masterful character development. Born on June 10, 1925, in Passaic, New Jersey, he served as a fighter pilot in the U.S. Air Force during World War II before pursuing a career in writing. His notable works include 'Light Years', 'All That Is', and the short story collection 'Dusk', which showcase his exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. Salter's writing is often characterized by its precision, emotional depth, and exquisite attention to detail. He has received numerous awards for his literary contributions, solidifying his legacy as one of the prominent figures in contemporary American literature.
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