I was through the first third of this book when I heard that the author had passed away at 89 years old. I’m sort of late to the party when it comes to McCarthy’s writing, and I think I’ll probably end up reading his books in almost the reverse order of their release. I was sorry to hear that one of my favorite authors was gone.
Just like his other books that I have read, this one is full of beautiful prose and really well-written (and often funny) dialog between characters. The two brothers in this story have a great relationship and the way they speak reflects that. In addition the descriptions of nature in the quiet moments of travel are outstanding. Small details remind me of when I did more hiking out on my own – the rustles of wind through reeds near the river described here sent chills down my spine.
This book is also pretty dark and takes a good unflinching look at the dark sides of men. The brutality isn’t quite as much as other books of his that I’ve read, but it certainly isn’t light reading by any account. But there are some light moments and signs of goodness here, although they are few.
It is always emotionally draining to read these books, but worth it for the beauty and deeper thoughts on humanity. Once again I’ll wait a while before I read some more of his work.
Next I am reading Flawless by Elise Hu.
