John Hawkes

John Hawkes was an American novelist known for his surreal and often darkly comic narratives. His works include 'The Lime Twig,' 'Second Skin,' and 'Travesty.' He was a significant figure in postmodern literature.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. The Cannibal: Novel

    Cover of 'The Cannibal: Novel' by John Hawkes

    The novel revolves around a small German town during World War II and its aftermath. The narrative is fragmented and nonlinear, filled with surreal and horrific scenes. The story is a blend of reality and dream, and it explores the themes of violence, power, sexuality, and the human capacity for evil. The protagonist is a traumatized and disfigured war veteran who is both repulsed and fascinated by the violence and cruelty around him.

    The 3253rd Greatest Book of All Time

  2. 2. Blood Oranges

    Cover of 'Blood Oranges' by John Hawkes

    "Blood Oranges" is a dark, surreal narrative that follows the journey of an unnamed narrator, a failed poet turned farmer, as he navigates through a landscape ravaged by a mysterious plague. The narrative is filled with bizarre and grotesque imagery, highlighting the narrator's descent into madness and his struggle to find meaning in a world that is falling apart. The story is a complex exploration of human nature, despair, and the struggle for survival in the face of overwhelming adversity.

    The 4752nd Greatest Book of All Time

  3. 3. The Lime Twig

    Cover of 'The Lime Twig' by John Hawkes

    In this novel, a couple living in post-war England become entangled in a dangerous scheme involving horse racing and theft. The husband is persuaded by a criminal group to steal a racehorse, leading to a series of tragic and violent events. The narrative is filled with surreal and nightmarish imagery, and the boundary between reality and illusion is often blurred. The story explores themes of deception, greed, and the destructive power of obsession.

    The 5758th Greatest Book of All Time

  4. 4. Second Skin

    Cover of 'Second Skin' by John Hawkes

    In "Second Skin," readers are plunged into the chaotic life of Skipper, a retired naval officer and teacher, as he navigates a series of tragic and surreal experiences on a remote island and elsewhere. The novel weaves through time, exploring Skipper's troubled relationships with his daughter and his deceased wife, as well as his attempts to find redemption and meaning in a world that seems to be disintegrating around him. The narrative is marked by its dark humor, complex symbolism, and an exploration of themes such as identity, loss, and the human capacity for self-deception and resilience.

    The 7193rd Greatest Book of All Time