UNDER THE VOLCANO
Malcolm Lowry
Belletristik/Erzählende Literatur
Beschreibung
"Under the Volcano" by Malcolm Lowry is a gripping and haunting novel that delves into the complex depths of human psychology, addiction, and the inexorable force of fate. Set against the backdrop of Mexico during the Day of the Dead celebrations, the book follows the tragic trajectory of Geoffrey Firmin, a former British consul who is grappling with personal demons, existential dilemmas, and the allure of self-destruction.
Published in 1947, "Under the Volcano" is a literary masterpiece that weaves together vivid descriptions, introspective narrative, and a sense of impending doom. The novel unfolds over the course of a single day, November 2, 1938, during which Geoffrey Firmin navigates the labyrinth of his own mind and confronts the specters of his past. As the title suggests, the looming presence of the Popocatepetl volcano serves as a metaphor for the internal turmoil and emotional upheaval experienced by the characters.
Geoffrey Firmin, the tragic protagonist, is a complex figure struggling with alcoholism, failed relationships, and the shattered remnants of his diplomatic career. The narrative follows his interactions with his estranged wife, Yvonne, and his half-brother, Hugh, who arrive in the small Mexican town of Quauhnahuac to reconnect with him. The three characters are entangled in a web of memories, regrets, and unfulfilled desires, making the novel a compelling exploration of human relationships and the consequences of past choices.
Lowry's prose is characterized by its poetic beauty, psychological acuity, and evocative descriptions of the Mexican landscape. Through his intricate storytelling, he captures the disintegration of Firmin's psyche, the allure of oblivion, and the constant struggle to find meaning in a world that seems indifferent to human suffering.
"Under the Volcano" is a work that delves deep into the complexities of addiction, the nature of human consciousness, and the eternal struggle between self-destruction and redemption. Lowry's exploration of themes such as the effects of colonialism, the search for identity, and the blurring boundaries between reality and illusion adds layers of depth to the narrative.
This novel remains a testament to the power of literature to capture the intricacies of the human experience and to illuminate the darkest corners of the human soul. "Under the Volcano" stands as an enduring literary achievement, celebrated for its psychological insight, evocative prose, and unflinching exploration of the human condition in all its complexities.
