Reddit meter
Infinite Jest
1079 pages, 2006
A vast, mind-altering comedy about the pursuit of happiness in America. Set in an addicts' halfway house and a tennis academy and featuring the most endearingly screwed-up family to come along in recent fiction, Infinite Jest explores essential questions about what entertainment is and why it has come to so dominate our lives, about how our desire for entertainment affects our need to connect with other people; and about what the pleasures we choose say about who we are.
Equal parts philosophical quest and screwball comedy, Infinite Jest bends every rule of fiction without sacrificing for a moment its entertainment value. Instead, it is an exuberant, uniquely American exploration of the passions that make us human - and one of those rare books that renew the idea of what a novel can do.
Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace explores the intricate nature of addiction. It's not just about drugs or alcohol, but also about our obsessions with entertainment, success, and even our own thoughts. It's a deep look into how these addictions can control and ruin lives.
Wallace emphasizes the importance of honest communication. Many characters in the book suffer because they can't express their feelings or thoughts. It's a reminder to us all to open up and share our experiences with others.
Infinite Jest takes a critical look at our society's obsession with entertainment. The book suggests that too much entertainment can distract us from reality and prevent us from living meaningful lives. It's a wake-up call to find balance in our lives.
David Foster Wallace doesn't shy away from the topic of mental health. He shows us the internal battles of his characters, encouraging us to be more understanding and compassionate towards people dealing with mental health issues.
Infinite Jest is a journey to find genuine happiness. It shows us that happiness isn't about success, fame, or even entertainment. It's about connecting with others, understanding ourselves, and finding purpose in our lives.
Quotes 5
Infinite Jest is a book that changes the way you perceive the world, it's a work of genius.
Zadie Smith - Novelist, EssayistInfinite Jest is a masterpiece, a book that will challenge and change you.
George Saunders - Writer, ProfessorInfinite Jest is a groundbreaking novel, a work of art that pushes boundaries.
Jonathan Franzen - Novelist, EssayistInfinite Jest is a book that will make you see the world in a different light.
Dave Eggers - Writer, EditorInfinite Jest is a novel that will leave you breathless, a work of staggering genius.
Michiko Kakutani - Literary Critic
