In 'Light in August', William Faulkner weaves a haunting tale set in the American South, exploring themes of identity, race, and the burdens of the past. Against a backdrop of stark social divides, the lives of several interconnected characters unfold, each grappling with their own search for meaning and belonging. The story centers on Lena Grove, a pregnant woman in search of the father of her child, and Joe Christmas, a tormented man struggling with his mixed heritage. Faulkner's rich, lyrical prose invites readers to ponder the complexities of human relationships and the shadows of history. As the characters' paths converge, the poignant revelations of their lives resonate, prompting a reflection on the light and darkness within us all.
By William Faulkner
Published: 1991
""The past is never dead. It's not even past.""
From the Nobel Prize winner—one of the most highly acclaimed writers of the twentieth century—a novel set in the American South during Prohibition about hopeful perseverance in the face of mortality. Light in August features some of Faulkner’s most memorable characters: guileless, dauntless Lena Grove, in search of the father of her unborn child; Reverend Gail Hightower, who is plagued by visions of Confederate horsemen; and Joe Christmas, a desperate, enigmatic drifter consumed by his mixed ancestry. “Read, read, read. Read everything—trash, classics, good and bad, and see how they do it. Just like a carpenter who works as an apprentice and studies the master. Read! You’ll absorb it. Then write. If it is good, you’ll find out. If it’s not, throw it out the window.” —William Faulkner
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“"The past is never dead. It's not even past."”
Light in August
By William Faulkner
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William Faulkner (1897-1962) was an American author known for his complex narratives and innovative writing style, which often included stream of consciousness and fragmented timelines. He is celebrated for his deep exploration of Southern culture and the human condition. Faulkner’s notable works include 'The Sound and the Fury,' 'As I Lay Dying,' and 'Light in August,' each reflecting his profound understanding of character and place. His literary contributions earned him two Nobel Prizes in Literature, establishing him as one of the most significant writers of the 20th century.
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