Arthur Koestler, by Darkness at Noon: ***

Very enjoyable, dark, story that asks some interesting questions about politics and offers insight into the thought-process of what I consider abhorrent ideology. Growing up in a world that values the individual, I found the actions and mindset of the lead character very eye-opening, as he justified all sorts of behavior I would never have been able to explain by showing how it could benefit society at large. Of course in my world, if it's not fair to the individual it can't be accepted. But from his perspective, individuals can be sacrificed for the good of the larger society, thereby benefiting the collected individuals. I still can't buy it, but it was fascinating, in a Kafkan sense. And the lead character was a very full and well-rounded. I felt for him even as I disliked him, which is really saying something for the author's creation. The story moves well, is fluidly paced, and ultimately quite powerful.
(Fall 2004)


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