Title: Bad Behavior
Author: Mary Gaitskill
First published January 1, 1988
203 pages, Paperback
Rating: 3.88
Overview
Prepare to be captivated by Mary Gaitskill’s debut short-story collection, Bad Behavior. With fierce and raw tales of love, sex, and obsession, Gaitskill’s writing will leave you breathless.
From the twisted romance in “Daisy’s Valentine” to the illicit weekend fling in “A Romantic Weekend,” the stories in Bad Behavior are not for the faint of heart. With editing and affairs gone wrong in “Something Nice” and “An Affair, Edited,” Gaitskill explores the darker side of human connection.
“Secretary” and “Other Factors” showcase the complexities of power dynamics and the struggle to be understood. Prepare to be transported to another world with the haunting and unforgettable stories in Bad Behavior.
About the Author
Mary Gaitskill is a talented American writer who has penned essays, short stories, and novels. Her work has been published in prestigious publications such as The New Yorker, Harper’s Magazine, Esquire, The Best American Short Stories (1993 and 2006), and The O.
Henry Prize Stories (1998). In 2001, she tied the knot with writer Peter Trachtenberg.
Gaitskill has lived in various places over the years, including New York City, Toronto, San Francisco, and Marin County, CA. She attended the University of Michigan, where she earned a B.A. and even won a Hopwood Award.
In her essay “Revelation,” Gaitskill shared that she became a born-again Christian at the age of 21 but ultimately stopped practicing after six months.
Editoral Review
Bad Behavior by Mary Gaitskill is a collection of short stories that examines the complexities of human relationships and the nature of desire. Published in 1988, Gaitskill’s writing has been described as unapologetically raw and honest, exploring the lives of those who are often overlooked or ignored by society.
The stories are set in New York City during the 1980s, a time of excess and indulgence. Gaitskill’s characters are often struggling with issues of identity, addiction, and violence, and the stories are unflinching in their portrayal of these struggles.
One of the most unforgettable stories in the collection is “Secretary”, which was later adapted into a film. The story follows the complicated relationship between a boss and his secretary, exploring themes of power dynamics and consent.
Gaitskill’s writing is unparalleled in its ability to capture the essence of her characters. Despite their flaws and often downright unlikeable behavior, Gaitskill makes them undeniably human, evoking empathy and compassion from the reader.
However, some may find the writing to be too bleak or depressing, with little hope for redemption or resolution. This can make for a difficult read at times, but it is ultimately a reflection of the harsh realities that many people face.
Bad Behavior is an important book that speaks to the complexities of human behavior and relationships. It may not be for everyone, but those who are willing to confront some uncomfortable truths will find merit in Gaitskill’s writing.
Overall, Bad Behavior is a fascinating and thought-provoking read. Its exploration of the dark side of human nature is both haunting and beautiful, and it is a testament to the power of the written word.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone interested in the complexities of the human experience. I give it a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
