Title: The Largesse of the Sea Maiden
Author: Denis Johnson
First published January 16, 2018
207 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780812988635 (ISBN10: 0812988639)
Rating: 3.94
Overview
Denis Johnson’s latest collection of short stories, The Largesse of the Sea Maiden, is a luminous exploration of the human condition. In this follow-up to his groundbreaking Jesus’ Son, Johnson delves into new territory, examining the complexities of old age, mortality, and the ghosts of the past.
With his signature prose, Johnson guides readers through the mysteries of the universe, revealing the unexpected and sometimes elusive ways that life asserts itself. Completed shortly before Johnson’s passing in May 2017, this collection is a testament to the enduring power of his work and the lasting impact he has on readers.
About the Author
Denis Johnson, a renowned poet, playwright, and author, was born in Munich, West Germany in 1949. He spent his childhood in Tokyo, Manila, and Washington.
After completing his education, he received numerous accolades for his work. These included a Lannan Fellowship in Fiction in 1993, a Whiting Writer’s Award in 1986, and the Aga Khan Prize for Fiction from the Paris Review for his book Train Dreams.
He was also awarded the National Book Award for Fiction in 2007.
Editoral Review
Denis Johnson’s posthumously published book, The Largesse of the Sea Maiden, showcases the author’s unique writing style and imaginative themes. Though Johnson passed away in 2017, his final work stands as a testament to his skill and creativity.
The Largesse of the Sea Maiden is a collection of five linked stories, each exploring themes of mortality, redemption, and love. Set in the Pacific Northwest, each story features different characters, all of whom are grappling with life’s truths and uncertainties.
One of the standout stories, “Doppelgnger, Poltergeist,” follows an advertising executive who develops a fascination with his doppelgnger, a man he sees on his regular commute. As he falls deeper into obsession, he begins to unravel and question his own identity.
Other stories explore the impact of addiction and mental illness, the meaning of art, and the search for connection and meaning in life. Johnson’s writing is intricate and insightful, with each line carefully crafted to convey meaning and emotion.
His characters are fully realized and complex, with distinct voices and personalities. The Pacific Northwest setting is also vividly depicted, offering a sense of place that grounds the stories and adds to their depth.
While The Largesse of the Sea Maiden lacks a traditional plot structure and may not suit all readers, it is a beautifully written and thought-provoking exploration of the human experience. Johnson’s themes are universal and relatable, and his writing is at times darkly humorous, poignant, and profound.
As a whole, The Largesse of the Sea Maiden is a final gift from a masterful writer who left us too soon. It is a must-read for fans of Johnson’s previous work and for any reader looking for a meaningful and introspective break from the world’s chaos.
Rating: 4.5/5
Recommended for: fans of literary fiction, readers looking for introspective and poignant stories, fans of Johnson’s previous work.
