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I just watched this movie (more than 25 years after it premiered). The plot, acting, etc., are lame. This is a "movie" that only Prince fans would like. I'm not a fan nor do I dislike him, so I was somewhat of an objective audience and this really is a lame "movie." So what if it's semi-autobiographical, it's a lame semi-autobiographical "movie." It really is just an extended series of Prince Music Videos. Nothing more, nothing less.

A timeless film. Story line is good, music is better, and Prince ranks among legendary guitarists such as Hendrix, Frampton, Clapton, and Santana, and proves that in this movie especially. A must see.

This is Prince's signature movie, I'm a fan of all 3 of his mooveez but I have to b honest with myself and admit this is tha 1. I must have seen Purple Rain at least 30 times and I can recite every line. There's something about the energy of this film that just captivates u. I love the score and it's no wonder it won Prince an OSCAR. Woohoo! Purple Rain is is genious and the music is timeless. It's hard to believe there is actually a sequel "Graffiti Bridge", but who really knows that and who kares, right? Eye do! They r both great mooveez, Prince can of course do no wrong, he is tha best artist that ever lived. I have recently been in a Prince funk and watched all of his films over the last week, watching all of them at least 2 times each and they never get old, I can watch them a hundred more times. Thank u Prince for making wonderful entertainment 4 all of us 2 enjoy, u r "Tha King", Elvis ain't got s@#$ on u!

This movie was a gift for my husband. We both love Prince, but agree his best work was done in the 1980s. This movie is awesome!

Im a big fan of Prince...this movie just go with my other collector items that I have of him. I even married an Prince look-a-like, without the heels and make-up though...LOL

Reviews

The KA soundtrack is at the top of Cirque music list. It's one of my favorites by far, even though I haven't seen the show, due to its beauty, intensity and raw power. Written by Cirque veteran Rene Dupere (Alegria, Saltimbanco, Mystere), KA is a dynamic, powerful and passionate soundtrack that captures the pure energy at the heart of any Cirque show. The biggest difference between KA and other soundtracks is that it includes a full orchestra and a 40-person choir, the first in Cirque history to do so. The show KA follows . This soundtrack also includes "Forest," a relaxing and surreal song that's one of my all time Cirque favorites. Other great songs include the powerful and passionate "Pageant," dramatic "Storm," and moving "If I Could Reach Your Heart." The majority of the songs are in Dupere's trademark "Cirquish," with three songs (two of which are bonus tracks) in English. I don't know if these songs are actually included in the show, but, while they are pretty, they seem just a little out of place. Without a doubt, KA is one of the most powerful Cirque du Soleil soundtracks out there. I'd recommend it to any fan.

The cd was everything I expected it to be. The music is fantastic, it was like seeing the show all over again. I love it!

My love of Cirque shows and their soundtracks began several years ago when I was introduced to Quidam and Dralion in French class. Since then I have had the pleasure of watching several of the shows on DVD and one live. I have always enjoyed Cirque music and during the past few months it has been my goal to explore more of it. I recently got to "KA" and was astounded by its beauty. Though a matter of opinion, I believe it is one of the best--if not THE best--scores yet composed by Cirque. I was instantly bitten by the "must see this" bug (currently the show resides in Las Vegas and is not available on DVD, but for those who cannot travel, "KA" was professionally filmed and aired one time in France and Germany, and can be found on most torrent sites). After seeing the show (the televised version) I was pleased that the CD generally matched, moreso than some other Cirque shows (Quidam is a excellent example). A review of each track follows. Some are out-of-order as they appear in the actual production, and can be easily re-arranged on one's iPod. ---DVD PERFORMANCE ACTS--- The Pageant The Storm The Deep The Archer's Den The Washup On Shore The Shadowplay The Climb The Blizzard The Flight The Twin Brother In Captivity The Forest People The Slave Cage The Battle Begins Aftermath ---CD TRACKS--- 1. O Makunde: True to the live version and very enjoyable to listen to. Actually taken from the theme of "Aftermath," the last scene in the show. 2. Pageant: Theme of "The Pageant". Lovely rhythm and we are introduced to the main singer (whose name I do not know). Her tone is beautiful. Sometimes I'll listen to this twice in a row. 3. Koudamare: Though this may be featured in the live show, it is not in the televised version. I do not care for it at all. Seems slightly out of place. 4. Storm: Theme of "The Storm". Brilliantly written and no need to see the act to envision the storm taking place. I catch the word "Poseidon" several times (could be my imagination but I doubt it.) 5. Deep: Theme of "The Deep". The music during which the female twin swims underwater to retrieve her Nursemaid. Absolutely beautiful music, simple and emotional. Do NOT listen to the accompanying song at the end or it may ruin it. It is best heard by itself with no vocals or additions. 6. Shadowplay: Theme of "The Shadowplay". A slight disappointment. The main melody makes an all-too-brief appearance here, whereas in the show it goes on much longer. I often play this track several times so I can hear the oboe at the length it is in the show. The melody is simple and elegant and peaceful. 7. Pursuit: Theme of "The Climb". A great "edge-of-your seat" piece, during which the archers scale the cliff after the female twin and her nursemaid/valets. Very true to the live version. 8. Forest: Theme of "The Forest People". One of the CD's highlights with a changing melody and the excellent performance of the female singer. Nearly identical to the show. 9. Flight: Theme of "The Flight." My favorite track by a MILE. This is beyond gorgeous, one of several songs sung by a young soprano boy. I could hear it over and over again and never tire. Had "Flight" been cut from the CD it would have received a single star review. You cannot have "KA" without this piece (or "Love Dance"). 10. Threat: An odd combination of a missing track and "Love Dance". Would have been great as a bonus, but not at the expense of the Archer's Den theme. 11. Love Dance: Theme of "The Twin Brother in Captivity". Another essential of the album. The theme of the Archer's Daughter as she performs her baton routine. The cello and violins are stunning. Listen to them carefully; each time they repeat, the music jumps an octave. One of the most stirring pieces in the show. 12: Battlefield: Theme of "The Battle." Very intense. Not particularly enjoyable to listen to (though great during the show) but hey, at least it's included. 13. Aftermath: Theme of "Aftermath". The female singer makes another welcome appearance and the song grows in beauty as it progresses. Short but well-written and very pleasing. 14, 15, 16: In short, a total waste of space and detriment to the album. There are reviewers who enjoy these songs, so I won't tear them to pieces, but they remind me of a "classic anime" song that you might hear during Sailor Moon or "Cirque Gone Animated". I hated them and deleted them from my playlist. (For those wishing to re-arrange their music true to the live show, it would be as follows): #2 #4 #5 #7 #9 #6 #11 #8 #12 #13 #1 Omit #3 (unless this is in the show and I don't know about it), #14, 15, 16 ---TRACKS CUT FROM CD--- The Archer's Den: Deadly, fast-paced, and everything a "bad guy" needs as far as a soundtrack goes. Admittedly a bit fragmented and not necessarily conducive to a CD, but the mixer could have done a better job of adding in bits and pieces rather than the strange techno "Threat" that exists in its place. Wash-Up On Shore: The "clown" routine. This is a super fun part of the score and I'm perplexed why it wasn't included. Sorely missed. The Blizzard: Very short in the show, but cute and very "Cirque-ish" with the twangy strings. Would have been possible to add this in right before "Flight" and it would have lightened the feel of the album. The Slave Cage: A nice feature of the electric guitar and a wonderful beat. It absolutely should have been added to the CD. ---FINAL TAKE--- My 4 star rating comes from the following: Missing pieces from the show Three wasted tracks of added vocals Cuts in existing tracks (like Shadowplay) Out of order from show schedule That said, this is a Cirque du Soleil album that CANNOT be omitted from your collection. It is worth it just for Flight, Love Dance, and Forest, and the other tracks are very enjoyable as well. In my opinion, worth every dollar. And if you ever get the chance, I wouldn't pass up the opportunity to see it live, either.

I've never been lucky enough to go to a live Cirque Du Soleil show, but I've been in love with the soundtracks for quite some time. They are inspiring and great listening for when I'm working on art or writing. Ka is no exception. At times flowing and tranquil and at others strong and fierce, this music will definitely feed the imagination!

Atmospheric music that fits the show like a glove. Probably the best original music from a Cirque show. It's great to drive along to as well.

Reviews

I have been looking for John McCormack on CD for years. I was thrilled when I found this and other CDs on Amazon. I have an LP that I bought decades ago and I have almost worn it out. The CD quality music is so much better!

With special emphasis on the variety presented in this collection, this album has a broadness of scope that will appeal to anyone who appreciates the magic of the human voice.McCormack was perhaps the most popular entertainer in the world during his career, comparable with the superstars of today, only richer in the currency of his day. Though purists may have criticized his shift to the popular venue as opportunism, and perhaps desertion of his training in the classical tradtions, he was simply presenting what people wanted to hear. Whether he set a pattern of career management followed by modern entertainers or was simply happiest when the accolades flowed over him matters not. The talent and richness are his legacy to us.His range and vocal dexterity are well illustrated and represented by this larger than usual collection, and anyone with a particular favorite tune in his rather loose genre will likely find it here.After a journey through this collection, listeners may well gain another special melody or two for addition to their personal list of "best ever" songs and singers.Although it may be considered a bit foolish, some will choose this album for only one or two tracks. Some call that trait wasteful, but when a jewel of performance is played again and again, the teardrop may fall once more, and the heart will thrill yet again.This album will please many musical palates, even those who claim no special fondness for "Irish Tenors."

Reviews

Don't be put off by the documentary format with which the movie opens; give it some time, and District 9 will reward you with great character writing and solid action sequences virtually mirroring war footage on CNN. When H.G. Wells wrote "The Time Machine" it was as much entertainment as it was a social commentary on the segregation of the aristocracy and the working class. This is what Science Fiction was born to do. And this is what District 9 does. So, on top of the great effects and action, it's been envisioned with a lot of political savvy, too. There's a bit of propaganda featured in the movie which bordered on the ridiculous - but it's forgivable against all else the film offers. Thanks, Peter Jackson for giving Blomkamp the cash!!

District 9 is a story about aliens who make contact with Earth and the relationships with humans and society. The creatures were set up in a makeshift home in South Africa's District 9. Control over the aliens has been contracted out to Multi-National United (MNU), a private company uninterested in the aliens' welfare. Their sole interest, alien technology and weapons. Weapon research would mean huge profits for the company. Wikus van der Merwe (Sharlto Copley) is placed in charge of the filed operation to evict, remove, and place the aliens in a new holding facility. Conflict and tension threaten the operation as agents move in. I will not go any further into detail because I would prefer to not spoil anything. This is unlike any sci-fi film I have seen in years. Forget Terminator 3 and 4, forget the AVP movies forget all those laughable sci-fi movies, this film is what we have been waiting for. An original idea, an original concept, brilliantly executed, great CGI, good acting, it just has it all. We have seen many aliens come to earth movies, but this is different, I will not say why though. That is for you to find out when you see it, which I HIGHLY recommend you do. While Producer Peter Jackson's name has been attached with everything -- and its promotional materials in particular -- revolving around District 9, Writer/Director Neill Blomkamp's film stands solidly on its own two feet. It's not an example of a pet project with only a name behind it to get it noticed, but instead a one-of-a-kind, with some really excellent action scenes with some great dramatic moments and some wonderful social commentary. Few films grab the attention so vigorously and never let go quite like District 9. District 9 lands on Blu-ray with an impressive array of extras, the collection headlined by a commentary track with Director/Co-Writer Neill Blomkamp. The Alien Agenda: A Filmmaker's Log is a three-part feature broken into three segments. Envisioning 'District 9 is a piece that examines the film's origins in Alive in Johannesburg, the story's evolution from that film to this, the story's themes, creature design, and more. Shooting 'District 9' offers a solid behind-the-scenes look at the making of several scenes and the challenges of the shoot, intercut with cast and crew interview clips. Finally, Refining 'District 9' looks at the finalization of the film's sound effects and score, cast and crew reflections on the experience, and more. Also included is a collection of 22 deleted scenes. The video quality delivers clear, sharp details; solid color reproduction; and a fair sense of depth. The audio is surprisingly spacious across the two channels, with crisp dialogue, strong ambience, and loud and clear sound effects. For a first effort, Neill Blomkamp has created one of the best SciFi film in years, I highly recommend this excellent film.

Man I have seen some bad movies but this one is really terrible. I watched the whole thing and I can't believe people are giving this 4 and 5 stars. I'd give it a negative if that were possible. Even Plan 9 From Outerspace was better than this.

I haven't seen that many films that were released just last year, but there were several that I really liked, including District 9. This movie is one of the best to have come out in 2009, with perfectly good reasons. It's not a standard sci-fi picture, but rather a satire on segregation and xenophobia. It's distinctive in that it's not set in a typical metropolitan city (such as New York City or Los Angeles), but actually set in Johannesburg, South Africa. It's a pretty deep sci-fi film, and it sure does deliver. In addition to the satire and the high octane action in the last half hour, I like how the film starts as a documentary in the first half and then an action-packed adventure in the second half. But I think the strongest element in District 9 is Wikus van de Merwe, the protagonist played by Sharlto Copley. When he's first introduced, you don't seem to care about him at first. But when his life is in danger, you start to care about him. And when his life is REALLY on the line near the end, you root for him all the way. That is what I like most about this movie: you really care about those who try to survive. And despite the main villain being pretty much a cardboard cutout, District 9 is still a thought-provoking sci-fi film that offers plenty of action, adventure, drama, and even humor. It's one of the definite best films of 2009. Grade: A-

I highly enjoyed this film only because I expected something slightly different but still within the realm of science fiction. After watching the film in its entirely, I was left with the impression that science fiction has taken a fresh, bold and political turn. The opening scenes, with its documentary style filming, shows how the world would react to the arrival of extra-terrestrials. As a person who watches documentaries, I love such "mockumentary". With this film, science fiction is no longer limited to cheap escapism and the usual stereotypes of extra-terrestrials as being either benevolent (Spielberg's E.T.)or monstrous (Cameron's Aliens). The aliens in this film do not come to either enlighten or destroy humanity. They are simply proletarian-class refugees from outer space, and they, combined with their very "alien" appearance, draw an obvious analogy to the current problem of refugees and illegal immigration that is just going to get worse as rich countries get richer while poor countries get poorer. This bold science fiction film is not afraid of being overtly political and drawing attention to a serious global issue, while continuing to use the same special effects, costumes, gadgets, futuristic weapons, space ships and action scenes that one normally finds in a science fiction movie. Drawing further audience attention to the government use of private military contractors (PMC) is also a plus. So "District 9" is still science fiction, but one with a powerful message about immigration, apartheid and social ostracism. The idea of the hapless protagonist mutating into one of the aliens may seem like a bit too much and unbelievable, but his complete physical transformation into one of the extra-terrestrials is simply the culmination of his slow gradual "alienation" from human society. If you are expecting fun escapism, find another film to take yourself and your kids to. If you expect to see something different from the usual "Star Wars" and "Star Trek" popcorn flicks, watch this incredible movie now.

Reviews

Am a big fan of Selleck's Jesse Stone series so recently bought this just because of Tom Selleck & very much enjoyed this movie

This movie is a fantastic film that really holds your attention so you must see how it ends and you will love that too. This film was in excellent condition,plays very well and the cover was also in wonderful shape so I would certainly buy items from this seller again.

I vaguely remembered this from my days in the video industry and the positive user reviews prompted me to see it again. I wasn't all that thrilled. As others have noted, the story revolves around Tom Selleck, who is an all around good dude who gets framed by a couple of crooked narcs to cover up the fact they screwed up and tried to bust the wrong guy. He goes to prison and his life is changed forever. First off, this looks and sounds like a made for TV kind of flick. The script and dialogue are pedestrian at best. Tom Selleck is likable enough but he isn't the greatest actor in the world and doesn't bring much to the roll. The opening scenes on through the trial are pretty God awful. They just don't hold up by today's sensibilities. Anyone in the audience could have done a better job of defending him in court than did his lawyer. It's just all so lame. Things do pick up a bit when he gets to prison, but again, we all know through any number of movies and TV shows that it's a lot worse in the joint than pictured here. What is cool is to see is David Rasch in one of his earlier performances as well as F. Murray Abraham in his pre-fame part. When he gets out, and feels forced to bring down the bad cops, things get bad again. It is one of the worst sting operations you'll ever see. And while it's always cool to see good triumph over evil, it needed to be way more cool. It moves at a rather brisk pace so, even at 113 minutes, time moves steadily enough. It's mildly diverting and if you're a Selleck fan (as is my wife) you could do worse. Just sit back and go with the flow and no harm will come to your brain cells.

This was a really good action movie..lots of drama and emotions in it..I can see this as being a true story even though it is not. Tom Selleck is very good in here. I reccommend this movie if you like action, cops and drama and Tom Selleck.

I RECEIVED MY DVD IN GOOD CONDITION AND IN A VERY TIMELY MANNER. I WILL BUY FROM THIS VENDOR AGAIN

Reviews

My wife and I didn't start watching CSI until around 2007...it is one of our favorite shows. Earlier this summer I decided to look up the complete first season to get some background on how the characters developed...and to tide us over through re-run season. It didn't take long to find what I was looking for on Amazon.com and at a great price. We've been watching the episodes all summer and I must admit that we've really enjoyed them so far. It is interesting to see the cast evolving and the technical make-up of how the show is shot and edited. This is a great product and I recommend it for any fan of CSI...even if you've seen the original episodes it is fun to re-watch them from time to time.

This series is a classic study in team work strategies. It can be used in the classroom too.

I've always liked CSI and wanted to start at the beginning and watch all the way through to the end. This first season was awesome! It's not the best crime drama for no reason. I especially liked these first episodes because they explore exactly why these characters do what they do: Evidence is what provides truth, even when people and circumstances or crime-scenes don't. These guys are unconventional defenders of truth, and that rocks in a world where truth isn't very popular..

This was all I expected it to be and I was amazed at how it was packaged, very different and designed to protect it very well. It was delivered in less than a week and I found ordering on the site extremly easy. I will be back to collect the rest of the episodes. Great site!!!!

This was a very good opening season for a great show. I missed most of the 1st season, so it was good to see some of the history for each character. I have always liked this show. This is a season that should not be missed.

Reviews

Two problems. 1.So tediously written, I had to skip over pages to keep interested. So poorly written, it's a wonder it ever got published. 2.This book clearly does not follow traditional Christian teachings. It is absolutely NOT a book that should give any comfort to a Christian, as defined in the new testament. A Christian finding this book comforting needs to reassess their beliefs in the actual Bible, and maybe consider being a Buddhist instead.

I loved this book. I believe it's one of the best and most memorable I've read. I really enjoyed it and it relates so much to things in my life. There was a part in the book about a struggling star that was flickering and having trouble shining that really reminded me of my father. Thank you Mr. Paul Young. I have bought 15 copies and have given them to friends. Your book was inspriational and a great read.

Everyone needs to listen to this audio book. It's about real life and what goes on and how you feel.

The Shack by WM. Paul Young did more than take my mind on a journey but it took my soul on a journey as well. I laughed, wept, remembered and basked in the revelation that was released through this perfectly penned work of fiction. In this work I was encouraged by the Truth. Thank you for sharing this powerful story.

I found the book to be a wonderful read that was hard to put down. If you are a person who believes God is an angry God who is always seeking adulation, then this book is not for you. Furthermore, if you are a person who lives your life via the old testament (it's not what you do in life, it's all about the things you DON'T do), then this book will not suit you. However, if you are a person who subscribes to living like that is taught in the new testament, then you will enjoy this book and recommend it to others.

Reviews

This book was awesome. I couldn't stop reading it. It was about surviving on an island and finding more people. So I'm going to write a review. Here is what the book is about. Two boys, Ralph and Piggy were alone on an island, so they thought. When they went to the beach, they found a conch. Since Piggy didn't want to blow it Ralph blew and more kids came. Since there were more kids, some people wanted the leader to be a kid named Jack and some people wanted Ralph to be leader. They took a vote and Ralph was leader. One day, they went to a rock and climbed it. Ralph and Jack and a kid named Roger came with them. Then, they went down. They then decide to split in to two groups but they would still stay in touch. They then walked back to their base. Another day, Jack's group stole Piggy's glasses and he got mad and told them to give them back. They said no. Then, they invaded (invaded what?). Later, a guy on a boat came to bring them back home. He asked if any were dead. Ralph said two. They took them and they never went back to the island. They got rescued. Most stories like this; at the end they get rescued. I always predict that and I'm always right. This book should be read by kids. It's a great book. The font is a little small but I still liked it.

the author does a great job at depicting our animal instincts kicking in when is a matter of life and death......I love the fact that the characters are kids......now on to the movie!

A very interesting story of how everyone can lose their minds, turning some turn into savages and others into animals. Good suspense. Great addition to the utopia/dystopia genre.

this is a classic but most of the book describes the scene and there is not much focus on the story line. If you are an english literature buff you will like the fancy language. I am an engineer and would like to move on with the story.

The Lord of the Flies was bittersweet for me. Here's some reasons why. I loved what Golding was doing here. I loved how he portrayed innocent schoolboys turning into violent savages. At first, the boys set up a democracy of sorts, by voting for Ralph as their leader. That is soon destroyed, with Jack being the catalyst. He started out as a boy who think rules are necessary, to one who thinks they are nonsense. And some of their ritual scenes were downright insane, especially the one involving Simon. The fact that the Lord of the Flies is in all of them is interesting, too. I also loved what Golding was saying about the adult world. Throughout most of the novel, the boys wish they had adults there to help guide them on the right path. However, in the skies above them, adults are killing each other because they can't agree on anything. Golding is showing that this is not a novel about how lack of adult supervision will lead kids to do bad things. It's about humanity as a whole. The boys represent different ideologies, and when those idologies don't agree, the inevitable solution is to fight. However, I didn't care about the characters at all. Certain characters would die, and I honestly wouldn't care at all. Maybe it's becuase this is a short novel, and the reader wasn't given enough time to become emotionally attached to the characters. I know this is meant to be an allegory for human nature, and the characters are not the most important, but I still like to become attached to characters, and feel for them when they die. The ending also left something to be desired. It just sort of dropped off. I get that the boys are leaving one world of chaos for another, but it was still a little disappointing. Overall, I suggest you read it. I liked it, and think it's an important book to read. One other important thing of note: In the scene where Jack and the gang are killing a mother pig, take note of Golding's diction. Does it remind you of something other than just a killing?

Reviews

I recently managed to make it all the way through Sophie's Choice, a book I had attempted to read in college and hadn't had the maturity to finish. I loved it on my recent read so I thought I should return to Lie Down in Darkness, another book I hadn't been able to complete. This is a very good, if not great, novel. It is also very depressing. I remember it being so depressing that I just couldn't get through it the first time (and my memory was good). All the same, the writing is beautiful and the characterizations clear and sad. In a sense, this novel is a lyrical essay on Tolstoy's quote about unhappy families from Anna Karenina: "Happy families are all alike; every unhappy family is unhappy in its own way." The novel opens on Peyton Loftis' body returning to her family on the train from New York after her suicide. Styron ranges back and forth in time and point of view throughout the novel in presenting the causes of Peyton's depression and suicide. Peyton Loftis is the template for a particular kind of doomed Southern girl - beautiful with Daddy issues and a dozen bad habits, the kind of girl certain kinds of boys fall in love with but never marry. She is in some ways a very old-fashioned character - very much of her own generation. Reading her will make you grateful that our mothers' generation fought the feminist battles and gave us options beyond attending Sweet Briar and marrying the first fraternity boy that crossed our path. I think it's a wonder more intelligent and creative women didn't cut their own throats in the public square out of sheer boredom. I'd like to say that all the changes in the status of women in the last 50 or so years have made the Peyton Loftises of the world obsolete, but that would be untrue. There are still plenty of boxes for both women and men to be confined to and political and societal change don't necessarily eliminate them. I'm glad I made it through this one this time. It is, as I said, a good novel. I can strongly relate to all the flavors of despair that Styron depicts and truly felt the presence of his own depression throughout the novel. Styron is wonderfully flamboyant with language and character, even when weighed down with his own demons.

"Lie Down in Darkness" is one of a group of books the novelist Richard Yates recommended to his writing classes at the University of Iowa and elsewhere. I copied the entire list from Blake Bailey's excellent 2003 Yates biography and have been using it as a means of re-entry into fiction-reading after a very long absence. What makes this book a considerable achievement, for me, is its structure, the way it plays with time, lurching forward as unsteadily as the funeral procession that is the book's core event, and telling its story along the way. The stream-of-consciousness suicide narrative near the end is richly imagined and convincing. I found the ending itself--which asserts that humble black people have more wisdom about life, love and forgiveness than the privileged whites who control their world--obvious and patronizing. Perhaps I'd have thought otherwise if I'd read it when "Lie Down in Darkness" was first published, in 1951. I'm very glad I followed Yates's recommendation.

I think it was interesting how Styron dedicated the final 10 pages of a 400-page book to a baptism of the minor characters. But in doing so, he draws a contrast between the impotence of Carey Carr and the spiritual bankruptcy of Helen Loftis and the power of Daddy Faith to inspire Ella and a faith community. Carr's ministrations fail to save Helen from her own guilt and self-loathing, which ultimately destroy her marriage and her daughter. On the other hand, Ella supports the Loftis family throughout the book, even if it is in a servile role, and at the end safeguards a stranger, Doris, who has strayed from her mother during the baptism. I couldn't help but think that the tragedy that befalls Peyton would not have occurred had she been Ella's daughter. A larger theme could be that the spiritual community in which Ella belonged is an antidote to the nihilism that pervaded the Loftis' world.

Before I read the novel Lie Down in Darkess, I read commentary which said that Merle Miller, a noted critic of the time, could not finish the last eighty pages because of beautiful and doomed tragedy of it all. The day I finished Styron's Lie Down in Darkess, it occurred to me that I should stop writing because none of my prose would ever be this amazingly poetic. Lie Down in Darkess is one of the most beautifully written books I have ever read. Milton Loftis, the main character, is not a protagonist because he is not our hero, although we certainly spend time hoping that he might find a middle ground between his shrewish wife, his alcoholic excesses and the heartbreak of his feelings for his oldest daughter Peyton. Milton Loftis is a man trapped in a Greek tragedy who blunders on every day, balancing his illusions and hoping for the best, although he, and we, the readers, see the foreboding clouds which spell certain doom from the beginning of the book. Helen, the bitter, hypocritical wife, clothes herself in the self righteous delusions of religiosity and spends most of her energy with the mentally incapacitated daughter Maudie. She pretends that Milton is a profligate sinner and adulterer who has made it his life's work to torture her, ignoring that her icy civility and the obvious hatred of her own daughter has been the prod to his loveless and licentious life style. Milton Loftis finds some modicum of hope in his sad affair with Dolly Bonner, but that and whisky are only ways to escape an insufferable existence he cannot escape and cannot understand. He is not weak enough to die, and he is not strong enough to flee. Admittedly, I am a stylist of the Faulknerian, Reynolds Price persuasion, so I found the haunting beauty of this novel enough to recommend it to other readers. I understand that is my bias, but I stand by that verdict. The more people who read this great book, the more awareness of life's inexorable twists, and, hopefully, the more aware we become of the pain of others, and the more committed we become to tolerance and forgiveness.

This long, wending, fatiguing, frustrating novel is one of those rare books that are so suffused with suffering and tragedy that the reader, if s/he is the sort of "deep" reader, as I imagine most prospective readers of this book are, will not emerge from reading it without suffering and trauma themselves. In particular, the character of Helen Loftis, whom Styron seems to have drug up from the depths of Hell, has such depraved and hateful intricacies in her soul, which Styron never ceases to plumb to their core, that this reader at least, breathed a long sigh of relief upon finishing the book and knowing that I wouldn't have to read about her anymore. She makes Lady Macbeth seem an ideal candidate for sainthood. All of this invites the question of whether a book that causes the reader to suffer is worth the read. To this, I don't have a pat answer. Yes, the poetic prose is beautiful and haunting. But so is that of Faulkner and Thomas Wolfe and Proust and Lowry and, more recently, John Banville. I'm not sure I would recommend this book before these, or even with these. A book which causes the reader to suffer is a unique experience in my long acquaintance with literature. I've not much else to say here, save to let the novel speak for itself, to let the prospective reader know what s/he is in for: "...a song of measureless innocence that echoed among lost ruined temples of peace and brought to their dreams an impossible vision: of a love that outlasted time and dwelt even in the night, beyond the reach of death and all the immemorial, descending dusks. Then evening came. Arms and legs asprawl, they stirred and turned. Twilight fell over their bodies. They were painted with fire, like those fallen children who live and breathe and soundlessly scream, and whose souls blaze forever." Last paragraph of Chapter 5, pg. 225, in my edition. Pretty love scene...No? One comes away from this book feeling that one is emerging from a Hell of Styron's own devising full of characters whose souls blaze forever in its bowels.