"Homer & Langley" is a novel written by E. L. Doctorow, published in 2009. It is a work of historical fiction inspired by the true story of the Collyer brothers, two eccentric and reclusive hoarders who lived in New York City during the 20th century.
The novel takes its title from the names of the two main characters, Homer and Langley Collyer. Homer is blind, and Langley is his younger brother. The story is narrated from Homer's perspective, offering a unique and introspective look into the lives of these two peculiar siblings.
Throughout the novel, Doctorow portraying the brothers' gradual descent into seclusion and hoarding as they withdraw from society and fill their home with a vast collection of objects and newspapers, leading to a cluttered and hazardous living environment. The brothers' eccentricity and their refusal to adapt to a changing world eventually make them objects of curiosity and concern for their neighbors and the wider community.
The novel explores themes of isolation, the passage of time, family dynamics, and the complexities of human relationships. Doctorow's storytelling skillfully weaves historical events and real-world figures into the narrative, adding depth and context to the brothers' lives.
0