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Mr Styron is truly in a class of his own, capable of making even the most mundane things like finger nail clippings seem interesting. Whether or not one enjoyed this novel, it must be conceded that this is some extremely good prose. Styron is not the type of writer who will hold your hand throughout. The point of view shifts on a whim, and as a result, I was only a third of the way through when I finally felt at ease in the milieu of Port Warwick with the Loftis family. Much of the praise for this book is contingent upon the young age at which Styron composed the novel. However, I would argue that while it is lyrically and poetically impeccable, he centers each character's external and internal conflict around the same fallacy. That is, when push comes to shove, these family members are incorrigibly selfish and petulant individuals who will never subside their selfish tendencies. The startling beauty of the words can sometimes rob you of the realization that Helen, Milton, and Peyton had this same argument just two years ago or ten pages ago. If it were up to me, this novel would be required reading for those considering replicating. It is a potent allegory that shows not everyone is cut out to advance the species.
