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The Rings of Saturn
306 pages, 1998
In its curious archive of photographs, Sebald's The Rings of Saturn reflects the narrator's walking tour along the east coast of England. A few of the things which cross the path and mind of this narrator (who both is and is not Sebald) are lonely eccentrics, Sir Thomas Browne's skull, a matchstick model of the Temple of Jerusalem, recession-hit seaside towns, wooded hills, Joseph Conrad and Rembrandt's Anatomy Lesson (which features a dissection of a herring).
In The Rings of Saturn, W.G. Sebald takes us on a journey through memory and history. He explores how the past shapes our present and how our memories can sometimes deceive us. It's a fascinating look into the human mind and the nature of memory.
Sebald shows us the power of storytelling in this book. He weaves together different narratives, creating a rich tapestry of stories that captivate the reader. It's a reminder of how stories can transport us to different times and places, and how they can help us make sense of the world.
The Rings of Saturn is also a celebration of the natural world. Sebald's descriptions of the English countryside are breathtaking, and they remind us of the beauty that surrounds us. It's a call to appreciate nature and to take care of our planet.
War is a recurring theme in the book. Sebald explores the devastating impact of war on individuals and societies, and how its effects can linger for generations. It's a sobering look at the cost of conflict and a call for peace.
Finally, The Rings of Saturn is a journey of self-discovery. As the author walks through the English countryside, he reflects on his own life and experiences. It's a reminder that sometimes, we need to take a step back and reflect on our lives to truly understand ourselves.
Quotes 3
The Rings of Saturn is an exquisite meditation on the nature of time and memory, told with a mesmerizing, almost dreamlike quality.
Susan Sontag - Writer, Filmmaker, ActivistSebald's The Rings of Saturn is a work of genius, a perfect blend of fiction and non-fiction, and a haunting meditation on the mystery of our existence.
Michael Hofmann - Poet, TranslatorThe Rings of Saturn is a masterpiece, a book that changes the way you see the world, a work of art that is both haunting and deeply moving.
Robert Macfarlane - Author, Scholar