Nostromo - classic Conrad (Nostromo - Joseph Conrad)

Member Name: nlingwood

Product:	Nostromo - Joseph Conrad
Date:	15/08/00 (232 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Gripping read

Disadvantages: not much

This is a story of revolution and struggle, set in a typical South American country in the late nineteenth century. This is an unusual setting for Conrad, but as the opening suggests his theme is of isolation. Human dilemmas are surrounded by vast, uncaring nature. The country is named Costaguana (Dung coast), but could be any of the unstable republics.

The Goulds, an English family, become involved in a struggle between the new, corrupt president and those who oppose him. Their trusted employee Giancomo (Nostromo, meaning our man) becomes the centre of their scheme. Together with an idealistic opponent of the dictator, he attempts to keep their silver bullion safe. Even though he becomes a hero, this is at a hidden price. As with other of Conrad’s characters, the man of action becomes paralysed by chance and uncertainty.

The backdrop is described with cinematic imagery, while an equal focus is given to the personal doubts and suffering. The national conflict is only a backdrop to the greater, internal struggle. One of the best novels from a very strong writer.

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