Oblivion
Oblivion
Book Brief
Beta329
Short Story • Fiction
•
Modern Classic Fiction•
PhilosophyContemporary
•
World History•
US History2005
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Oblivion is a collection of eight short stories by David Foster Wallace, exploring themes of perception, reality, and human consciousness. Individuals in stories like "Mister Squishy," "The Soul is Not a Smithy," and "Good Old Neon" navigate complex relationships, internal struggles, and the pursuit of meaning, highlighting the challenges and intricacies of modern life.
Contemplative
Mysterious
Dark
Unnerving
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
15,809 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Oblivion by David Foster Wallace showcases his signature inventive prose and intricate storytelling, drawing praise for its depth and wit. Critics highlight its exploration of consciousness and existential themes. However, its complexity and demanding narrative style may challenge readers, potentially leading to a polarizing reception. A must-read for fans of literary experimentation.
Who Should Read Oblivion?
A reader who would enjoy Oblivion by David Foster Wallace likely appreciates complex narratives, dark humor, and introspective themes. They might also enjoy Thomas Pynchon's Gravity’s Rainbow or Don DeLillo's White Noise, favoring layered stories that explore the intricacies of modern life.
15,809 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Oblivion: Stories was published in 2004 and is a collection of eight short stories by David Foster Wallace that explores themes of consciousness, human connection, and the surreal aspects of ordinary life.
David Foster Wallace is known for his dense, footnote-rich writing style, which is also present in Oblivion, where complex narratives and philosophical inquiries weave through the stories.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
The cover design for the first edition of Oblivion: Stories features minimalist artwork, capturing the book's enigmatic and contemplative essence, a common theme in Wallace's literary repertoire.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
329
Short Story • Fiction
•
Modern Classic Fiction•
PhilosophyContemporary
•
World History•
US History2005
Adult
18+ years
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!