Now I know that Cyndi already reviewed this book. I just thought I might as well throw my two cents in. The End of the Affair was very emotionally charged. Excellent writing, with a weird and interesting stream of conscious thoughts. At times I feel that I liked this book, although that might be due to its short length and relatively simple plot. Greene paints a captivating picture that dwells more on thematic conserns than story.
The story as it is, revolves around Maurice Bendrix; a man with an obsession. His adulturous affair with Sarah may have ended two years previously, but his hate and jealosy have not died. Bendrix delves into the depths of tormented emotion. His piteous hatred and twisted desire mix and eventually boil over as Bendrix explores his jealousies, towards Sarah, God and ultimately himself. This novel, explores some very disturbing natures of the human psyche, that to be honest I’m not all that comfortable with. Greene asks us not just what we believe in, but why, and tests our convictions. His novel shines with a miserable sort of unhappiness.
Cyndi, commented how sad this book was for her. I on the other hand didn’t really find it all that bad. It just felt very lonely, and faithless. I’m left wondering if Greene really believes in anything, because he seems to have special insight into the emptiness that Bendrix experiences.
In the end, I’m not too sure I liked this book overall. Good writing, but it wasn’t really all that enjoyable. I suppose it’s good for me to read something challenging, and this book definately does challenge the reader. I’m just not sure I actually wanted to be answer those specific question. Read this book if your confused or depressed, maybe you’ll empathise with certain unsavoury elements. Otherwise, avoid it for fear of excessive emotional pessimism.
