Pre-Yokna Faulkner, a profound exploration of what we pay for war.

It is truly a great deal. Here, he is developing his stylistic prowess in terms of skillfully shifting the narrative perspective and deftly juggling characters. Of course, this is not the only aspect that stands out.

The human and philosophical observations he makes are already remarkably sharp and prescient. Consider this passage, which seems to look forward to our current evangelistas: "We purchase our salvation as we do our real estate. Our God need not be compassionate, he need not be very intelligent, But he must have dignity."

Ah, dignity! It is a powerful concept that Faulkner touches upon here. In a world where war often brings destruction and chaos, the idea of dignity takes on even greater significance.

Faulkner's words make us reflect on the true cost of war and the values that we hold dear. His work serves as a reminder that we must be careful what we wish for and that the consequences of our actions can be far-reaching.

Overall, Pre-Yokna Faulkner is a thought-provoking piece that offers valuable insights into the human condition and the nature of war.

In just three short years, Faulkner astonishingly made the leap. The first three novels were comparably slight and almost forgettable. However, he then produced the masterpiece of "The Sound and the Fury". It is truly remarkable.

I have read many authors in the Library of America collections, but I can't think of another one who could blow such a beautiful butterfly out of such a dull chrysalis. Faulkner's transformation as a writer in this short period is simply astounding.

His ability to evolve from creating rather unremarkable works to penning a literary classic is a testament to his genius and creative power. It makes one wonder what other great works he might have produced had he lived longer.

"The Sound and the Fury" stands as a shining example of his talent and a landmark in American literature.

This book encompasses Faulkner's initial four novels and is the very first installment in a splendid series of five from the Library of America, which, when combined, constitute his collected novels.

The first two books within this collection, namely "Soldier's Pay" and "Mosquitos," are rather negligible, even for the most dedicated enthusiasts.

"Flags in the Dust" is the first novel Faulkner penned, set in the mythical Mississippi area that would subsequently serve as the backdrop for nearly all of his subsequent works. It is interesting if only because it lays the groundwork for this colossal epic.

I have just completed "The Sound and The Fury" for the first time since I was 18, and I am equally astounded by what an astonishing and challenging work it is. It is the first of his novels that truly discloses his perception of the profound emotions of such a diverse range of characters and individuals. And it is precisely this aspect that engages the reader because, similar to much of Faulkner's work, upon finishing the book, one looks back not on a single story but rather on a series of intersecting lives and relationships in all their complexity and beauty. I have a profound love for Faulkner.

Four great novels.

I have thoroughly enjoyed reading these novels in chronological order. It is truly remarkable to witness the evolution of Faulkner's skills as he gradually settles into his own distinct and original voice.

With each successive novel, one can observe the refinement and growth in his writing style. The early works may display certain青涩 and experimental qualities, but as he progresses, Faulkner's ability to craft complex characters, intricate plots, and vivid descriptions becomes increasingly evident.

His use of language is masterful, creating a rich and immersive reading experience. The novels transport the reader into the unique worlds and cultures that Faulkner has created, allowing us to explore the human condition in all its complexity.

Overall, reading these four great novels in chronological order has been a fascinating and rewarding journey, providing valuable insights into the development of one of the greatest American writers of the 20th century.

Faulkner's first four novels hold a significant place in the literary world.

The Sound and the Fury is widely regarded as a masterpiece. It showcases Faulkner's unique writing style and profound exploration of human nature.

The earlier three novels, although perhaps not as immediately memorable as The Sound and the Fury, are still worthy of being read. They offer valuable insights into Faulkner's evolution as a writer.

Each of these novels contributes to the overall body of his work and helps to build a more complete understanding of his literary vision.

For those interested in delving deeper into Faulkner's writing and the development of his ideas, reading all four of these novels is highly recommended.

It allows one to witness the growth and transformation of a literary giant and gain a greater appreciation for his remarkable contributions to literature.

Reviews:

- Soldier's Pay: This work offers a unique perspective on the experiences of soldiers. It delves into the emotional and psychological turmoil that they face, as well as the impact of war on their lives.

- Mosquitoes: The story of "Mosquitoes" is filled with intrigue and mystery. It takes the reader on a journey through a world of secrets and hidden motives, keeping them on the edge of their seats until the very end.

- Flags in the Dust: This novel explores themes of family, honor, and tradition. It paints a vivid picture of a bygone era, capturing the essence of a time when values were held dear and loyalty was everything.

- The Sound and the Fury: Considered one of the greatest works of American literature, "The Sound and the Fury" is a complex and deeply moving novel. It tells the story of the Compson family through the eyes of different narrators, each offering a unique perspective on the family's decline and the loss of their once-great Southern heritage. The novel is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning in life. Click here to read more about this classic novel.

Sartoris is a significant novel in William Faulkner's body of work. It is the first novel that he set in the fictional Yoknapatawpha County, a place that would serve as the backdrop for fourteen more of his novels.

In this early work, Faulkner not only introduces the Sartoris family but also includes the Snopes. It is in Sartoris that he seems to have started to find his own unique literary voice, showing an improvement over his two previous novels, Soldiers' Pay and Mosquitoes.

The story focuses on a Southern family of the 'romantic' type, characterized by chivalry and courage, but often expressed in a haughty and vain manner. Bayard the younger, whose grandfather is also named Bayard, returns home after the Great War. He demonstrates a recklessness that is at odds with the traditional Sartoris family values, creating a tension between tradition and modernity that runs throughout the novel.

Faulkner's inimitable prose style is beginning to take shape in Sartoris. There are paragraphs that read like pure poetry in prose, although not as many as would be found in his later works. The combination of a compelling story, a sense of the characters' souls, vivid action, and intimations of the future makes Sartoris a satisfying introduction to the South as seen through the eyes of someone sitting on a porch in Yoknapatawpha County.

The first book of the 5-volume set where the Library of America gathers the indispensable work of this author. This volume includes \\"Soldiers' Pay\\" (1926), his first published novel, which I really liked; \\"Mosquitoes\\" (1927), which I didn't like as much (my reviews are in the links of the title of each book); it continues with \\"Flags in the Dust\\" (published in 1929 as \\"Sartoris\\") which I also liked a lot, and ends with \\"The Sound and the Fury\\" (1929), a true masterpiece of Literature.

As always, the carefully edited edition of the Library of America is worth the price! And it is the most recommended option to add real books to the library.

This collection not only showcases the author's early works but also provides a comprehensive view of his literary evolution. Each novel offers a unique perspective on different themes and literary styles. \\"Soldiers' Pay\\" introduces us to the author's talent for creating complex characters and exploring the aftermath of war. \\"Mosquitoes\\", although not as well-received by me, still has its own charm and literary value. \\"Flags in the Dust\\" and \\"The Sound and the Fury\\" are both considered classics and are essential reads for any literature enthusiast.

The Library of America's edition ensures that these works are presented in the best possible way, with accurate text and helpful annotations. It is a must-have for those who want to study and appreciate the works of this great author.

Oh yeah,

I'm just taking a break from Melville. His works are often profound and complex, sometimes leaving me in a state of mental exhaustion. So, as a palette cleanser, I've turned to a little Faulkner.

Faulkner's writing style is distinct and captivating. His use of language, the way he weaves stories, and the vivid characters he creates all offer a refreshing change. It's like stepping into a different literary world, one that is equally rich and engaging but in a unique way.

Taking this break allows me to explore different literary landscapes and gain new perspectives. It's a wonderful way to rejuvenate my reading experience and keep my literary journey diverse and exciting.

Just read "Soldier's Pay" and most of "Mosquitos" before heading for "As I Lay Dying."

It doesn't work to read Faulkner the way you would read, say, Tolkien or Sir Walter Scott. The latter gentlemen tell a fairly monotextured story. In the course of which, to be sure, they handle serious themes and evoke sensations and images that go far deeper than the "plain" text. This is best appreciated at face value. Even a more complex work like, say, a Shakespeare play, must still be appreciated on that foundational level first. Overall, these writers mean what they say, say what they mean, and further digging is rewarded by an amplification or deepening of the face value. With these two Faulkner works, it seems as though you have to ignore any "face value" meaning of the story. For the simple reason that there isn't one, because it isn't one. They're mostly a collation of sensations, psychologies, and blurry images, not always even in logical or chronological order.

For me (and I fully admit this is my shortcoming) Faulkner doesn't carry enough ethos to justify the kind of digging required to appreciate what he's doing. He can certainly turn a good phrase, and the characters are kinda interesting, and the scene setting pleases my historical ego. But I aspire too much to eighteenth century sensibilities to believe that what Faulkner has to say is worth the violence done to the natural order of things.

Since, however, I have admitted this is a shortcoming, I will continue to seek to remedy it. Maybe "Absalom" or "Light in August" will work better. I will approach these works with an open mind and a willingness to explore the complex and often chaotic world that Faulkner creates. I hope to gain a better understanding of his unique style and the deeper meanings that lie beneath the surface of his stories.

Soldiers’ Pay - 3/5

This work by William Faulkner presents a complex and often poignant exploration of the lives and experiences of soldiers. The story delves into the psychological and emotional turmoil that soldiers face, both during and after war. Faulkner's writing style is rich and detailed, painting a vivid picture of the characters and their surroundings. However, some readers may find the narrative a bit convoluted at times, which is why it receives a score of 3/5.

Mosquitoes - 3/5

Another work by Faulkner, Mosquitoes, is a more experimental piece. It features a diverse cast of characters and a non-linear narrative structure. The story explores themes of love, lust, and the human condition in a rather unconventional way. While some may appreciate the innovative approach, others may find it difficult to follow. Overall, it earns a score of 3/5.

Flags in the Dust - 4/5

Flags in the Dust is a powerful and engaging novel that tells the story of the Sartoris family. Faulkner's portrayal of the characters and their relationships is both nuanced and深刻. The novel explores themes of honor, duty, and the South's changing social and political landscape. The writing is beautiful and evocative, making it a highly enjoyable read. It receives a well-deserved score of 4/5.

The Sound and the Fury - 5/5

Considered one of Faulkner's masterpieces, The Sound and the Fury is a tour de force of modernist literature. The novel is told from multiple perspectives, each offering a unique and often fragmented view of the events that unfold. Faulkner's use of stream-of-consciousness narration and his complex language create a rich and immersive reading experience. The story explores themes of family, loss, and the meaning of life in a profound and unforgettable way. It is truly a 5/5 work of art.

Jan, 2010: Soldiers' Pay. This is the earliest novel written by Faulkner. It marks the beginning of my 3-year project to read all of his novels and short story collections, in chronological order.

I am excited to embark on this literary journey and explore the rich and complex world that Faulkner has created.

April, 2010: I am now starting Mosquitoes. I am looking forward to delving into this new work and seeing how it fits into the overall body of Faulkner's literature.

Each of his works is unique and offers a different perspective on life, love, and the human condition. I am eager to discover the hidden gems and profound insights that await me in each page.

As I progress through this project, I hope to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Faulkner's genius as a writer.