Plot summary, “Under the Volcano” by Malcolm Lowry in 11 Minutes - Book Review
0"Under the Volcano" is a novel written by British author Malcolm Lowry. It was first published in 1947 and is considered one of the most important works of 20th-century literature. The novel is renowned for its intricate narrative, complex characters, and its exploration of themes such as alcoholism, existentialism, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world.
The story is set in the Mexican town of Quauhnahuac (modeled after Cuernavaca) on the Day of the Dead in 1938. The central character is Geoffrey Firmin, a British ex-consul and an alcoholic. The novel takes place over the course of a single day and follows Firmin's descent into the depths of his alcoholism and despair.
As Firmin wanders through the town and interacts with various characters, including his estranged wife Yvonne and his half-brother Hugh, the reader is given insight into his tormented inner world and the events that have led him to this point. The backdrop of the story is the looming Popocatepetl volcano, which serves as a symbol of the destructive forces both within and outside of Firmin.
"Under the Volcano" is known for its dense and poetic prose, as well as its use of symbolism and multiple narrative perspectives. It explores themes of addiction, isolation, and the human struggle to find meaning and connection in a world that often seems indifferent.
Malcolm Lowry's novel is considered a masterpiece of modernist literature and has received critical acclaim for its depth and complexity. It has been studied and analyzed extensively by literary scholars and is often included in lists of the greatest novels of the 20th century.
The novel's title and setting, with the volcano as a constant presence, create a sense of impending doom and serve as a metaphor for the characters' inner turmoil. "Under the Volcano" is a challenging but rewarding work that continues to be celebrated for its literary merit and its exploration of the human condition.