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Novels 1967–1972: When She Was Good / Portnoy’s Complaint / Our Gang / The Breast

philip roth ross miller

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In this, the second volume of The Library of America’s definitive edition of the collected works of Philip Roth, published by special arrangement with the author, the range and inventiveness of Roth’s fiction is dazzlingly displayed in four extraordinarily diverse works.

When She Was Good (1967) is the trenchant portrait of Lucy Nelson, a young midwestern woman whose perception of her own suffering turns her into a ferocious force, “enemy-ridden and unforgivingly defiant,” as Roth would later describe her. A small-town 1940s America of restrictive social pressures and foreclosed opportunities provides the novel’s background.

The publication of the hilarious Portnoy’s Complaint (1969) was a cultural event that turned Roth into a reluctant celebrity. The confession of a bewildered psychoanalytic patient thrust through life by his unappeasable sexuality yet held back by the iron grip of his unforgettable childhood, Portnoy unleashed Roth’s comic virtuosity and opened new avenues for American fiction.

In Our Gang (1971), described by Anthony Burgess as a “brilliant satire in the real Swift tradition,” Roth effects a savage takedown of the administration of Richard Nixon (who figures here as Trick E. Dixon). Written before the revelations of the Watergate scandal, Our Gang continues to resonate as a broad and outraged response to the clownish hypocrisy and moral theatrics of the American political scene.

The Kafkaesque excursion The Breast (1972) introduces David Kepesh in the first volume of a trilogy that continues with The Professor of Desire (1977) and The Dying Animal (2001). The Breast prompted Cynthia Ozick to remark, “One knows when one is reading something that will permanently enter the culture.”

Publisher’s series: Library of America #158

672 pages, Hardcover

First published August 18,2005

This edition

Format
672 pages, Hardcover
Published
August 18, 2005 by Library of America
ISBN
9781931082808
ASIN
1931082804
Language
English

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About the author

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philip roth

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Philip Milton Roth was an American novelist and short-story writer. Roth's fiction—often set in his birthplace of Newark, New Jersey—is known for its intensely autobiographical character, for philosophically and formally blurring the distinction between reality and fiction, for its "sensual, ingenious style" and for its provocative explorations of American identity. He first gained attention with the 1959 short story collection Goodbye, Columbus, which won the U.S. National Book Award for Fiction. Ten years later, he published the bestseller Portnoy's Complaint. Nathan Zuckerman, Roth's literary alter ego, narrates several of his books. A fictionalized Philip Roth narrates some of his others, such as the alternate history The Plot Against America.
Roth was one of the most honored American writers of his generation. He received the National Book Critics Circle award for The Counterlife, the PEN/Faulkner Award for Operation Shylock, The Human Stain, and Everyman, a second National Book Award for Sabbath's Theater, and the Pulitzer Prize for American Pastoral. In 2005, the Library of America began publishing his complete works, making him the second author so anthologized while still living, after Eudora Welty. Harold Bloom named him one of the four greatest American novelists of his day, along with Cormac McCarthy, Thomas Pynchon, and Don DeLillo. In 2001, Roth received the inaugural Franz Kafka Prize in Prague.

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Community Reviews

Rating(4.3 / 5.0, 22 votes)
5 stars
9(41%)
4 stars
11(50%)
3 stars
2(9%)
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22 reviews All reviews
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Olinizm
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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A colleague said condescendingly that Roth's humor is adolescent.

Sure it is, but which of us have grown out of our adolescence so completely that we do not recognize its old growth in our selves?

"Portnoy's Complaint" is superb in its inventive humor. It is a work that showcases Roth's unique ability to blend the absurd and the relatable, creating a comical yet profound exploration of human nature and sexuality.

The anti-Nixon satire of "Our Gang" I find rather tiresome. While it may have been relevant and timely during its initial publication, the passage of time has perhaps dulled its impact.

The Kafkaesque "The Breast" is unexpectedly moving. Roth's use of Kafka's style and themes adds a layer of depth and complexity to the story, making it a powerful meditation on identity, transformation, and the human condition.

Overall, Roth's body of work is a testament to his literary genius and his ability to explore the human experience in all its forms, from the humorous to the tragic.
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momochan21
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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Please see my reviews of each of the four works included in this volume.

I had the opportunity to read the first edition of this book. Similar to the first volume of Roth's works published by LOA, the editors adhered to the original printings of each of the works. However, it should be noted that the editions published by Random House contain quite noticeable (and rather annoying) typographical errors. These errors unfortunately prevent this edition from being considered definitive.

It is a pity that such mistakes exist in what could otherwise be a highly regarded collection. The presence of these typographical errors can sometimes disrupt the reading experience and make it a bit less enjoyable. One would hope that in future editions, more attention would be paid to proofreading and ensuring the accuracy of the text.

Despite these flaws, the works themselves still hold great value and offer interesting insights into Roth's literary style and themes.
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wolfgiselle
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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The pleasant surprise here is "When She Was Good".

It is a tart, traditional, and closely observed novel that delves deep into the life of a tragic character.

The story unfolds with a meticulous attention to detail, painting a vivid picture of the protagonist's world.

The author skillfully weaves a narrative that keeps the reader engaged from beginning to end.

The tragic nature of the character adds an element of pathos and depth to the novel, making it a truly captivating read.

Whether you are a fan of traditional literature or simply looking for a good story, "When She Was Good" is sure to satisfy.

It offers a unique perspective on the human condition and explores themes of love, loss, and redemption.

So, if you're in the mood for a novel that will touch your heart and make you think, give "When She Was Good" a try.
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NewAnimeFan
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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Five stars for Portnoy.

The book is not only extremely funny but also holds a tinge of sadness when one really thinks about it. It accurately depicts the cultural phenomenon of the Jewish mother, along with Jewish families, neuroses, longings, and so on.

Although it might be less precise in describing the generation after Roth.

Four stars go to When She Was Good.

It offers a very moving and internal perspective of a young woman from a troubled family as we witness her psyche crumbling.

Four stars as well for Roth's Nixon parody, Our Gang.

I read this in 1972 when I was 14 years old and found it hysterically funny back then.

Recently, I read it again just in time to commemorate the 39th anniversary of Nixon's resignation and still found myself laughing out loud.

Roth is simply perfect in his dissection of the "Tricky One".

However, only three stars for The Breast.

It has its亮点 moments, but it is too self-consciously derivative of Kafka's Metamorphosis and Gogol's The Nose, even if it is intended as a late 20th-century send-up or homage to those works.

Overall, Roth's works展现了 his unique literary talent and ability to explore various themes and characters.

Each book has its own charm and significance, making them a must-read for any literature enthusiast.

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Ginga_Daiuchuu
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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Man, is this a strange short story or what?

It really makes you wonder as you read along. The plot seems to twist and turn in the most unexpected ways.

I found myself completely engrossed, eager to reach the end to determine if the entire story was just some elaborate delusion.

The author has crafted a narrative that keeps you on the edge of your seat, constantly second-guessing what is real and what is not.

Each page turn brings a new surprise, making it impossible to put the story down.

As I got closer to the end, my anticipation grew. Would it all make sense? Or would it leave me with more questions than answers?

Only time would tell as I continued to read, hoping to解开 the mystery of this strange and captivating short story.

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ghostdoctoraki
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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I read only Portnoy's Complaint, as I am currently engaged in reading the Random House (Modern Library) 100 Best Novels in the English language from this and the last century. This particular novel was extremely funny, yet it is clear that it is not a book suitable for everyone.


The reason being that it contains some very detailed sexual content. I must admit that I was a little surprised to find it on the list, especially when it is among renowned works by Hemingway, D.H. Lawrence, and other literary greats.


One might wonder what criteria were used to include this novel in such an esteemed collection. Perhaps it was the boldness and originality of its subject matter, or the unique way in which the author explored the human psyche and relationships.


Nevertheless, it is important to note that while Portnoy's Complaint may have its merits, it may not be to the taste of all readers, especially those who are more sensitive to graphic sexual descriptions.


In conclusion, reading this novel has been an interesting experience, but it has also made me reflect on the diverse range of literary works that are considered to be among the best.
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cherry_a
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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In this volume, published by the Library of America, the \"early\" works of the author are brought together, starting from When She Was Good, the second novel he published. Out of the four, only the first two appealed to me. The delirious satire on NIXON, Our Gang, although still relevant as it depicts very well the hypocrisy and \"theatrical\" nature of politicians, I found it a bit boring. Finally, The Breast is too \"Kafkaesque\", although Professor Kepesh fares much better than poor Gregorio Samsa.

\"When She Was Good\" catches the eye because it is the only novel by ROTH with a female protagonist, and Lucy is so well described that I really came to hate her... \"What's wrong with this woman!\" I thought several times while reading the book.

\"Portnoy's Complaint\", on the contrary, is very funny, and while reading it I couldn't help but remember the vignettes of Woody ALLEN on the psychiatrist's couch, and also the episodes of the TV series \"Seinfeld\"; I think the book anticipates the \"Jewish\" humor of the series.
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APH_Ruby
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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The only essential novel contained in this pricey volume is Portnoy's Complaint. This particular novel stands out as a must-read. It offers a unique and engaging exploration of various themes.

However, the other novels included in this collection are really only for the most dedicated completists. They may have some value, but they lack the same level of significance and appeal as Portnoy's Complaint.

For those who are truly passionate about collecting every piece of a particular author's work or who are interested in a comprehensive study of a specific literary period, these additional novels might hold some interest. But for the average reader, the main draw of this volume is undoubtedly Portnoy's Complaint.

It is important to note that the price of this volume may be a deterrent for some, especially considering that the majority of the novels within it are not essential for a general understanding or appreciation of the author's body of work.

Overall, while Portnoy's Complaint is a great addition to any bookshelf, the decision to purchase this pricey volume should be carefully considered based on individual interests and reading goals.
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