William H. Gass

William Howard Gass was an American novelist, short story writer, essayist, critic, and philosophy professor. Known for his experimental writing style and philosophical themes, Gass made significant contributions to contemporary 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. In the Heart of the Heart of the Country

    Cover of 'In the Heart of the Heart of the Country' by William H. Gass

    The book is a collection of short stories exploring the lives of ordinary people in the Midwest. The narratives delve into the human condition, examining the complexities of relationships, the nuances of emotion, and the struggles of existence. The stories capture the essence of Midwestern life, painting a vivid picture of the landscape and its people, while also exploring themes of isolation, disillusionment, and the search for meaning.

    The 1267th Greatest Book of All Time

  2. 2. Omensetter's Luck

    Cover of 'Omensetter's Luck' by William H. Gass

    Set in a small Ohio town in the 1890s, the novel revolves around the enigmatic character Brackett Omensetter, a man whose mere presence seems to affect those around him in profound and inexplicable ways. The story is narrated from the perspectives of three different characters: the town's eccentric and paranoid physician, a reverend tormented by his lack of faith, and a local man who becomes obsessed with Omensetter. The narrative explores themes of religion, morality, and the nature of luck and fate.

    The 3264th Greatest Book of All Time

  3. 3. Fiction and the Figures of Life

    Cover of 'Fiction and the Figures of Life' by William H. Gass

    This book is a collection of essays that delve into the exploration of literary modernism, the nature of art, and the role of the artist. It offers a critique and analysis on a variety of authors and their works, examining their styles, themes, and techniques. The author also discusses his personal philosophies and views on the craft of writing, providing a unique perspective on the complexities of literature and the creative process.

    The 5758th Greatest Book of All Time

  4. 4. The World Within the Word

    Cover of 'The World Within the Word' by William H. Gass

    "The World Within the Word" is a collection of essays that explores the art of writing and reading, delving into the intricate relationship between the writer, the text, and the reader. The author analyzes various literary works, offering a unique perspective on the nature of narrative and the role of language in storytelling. The book also discusses the philosophical aspects of literature, examining how it reflects and shapes our understanding of reality.

    The 6125th Greatest Book of All Time

  5. 5. The Tunnel

    Cover of 'The Tunnel' by William H. Gass

    "The Tunnel" is a complex and challenging novel that explores the life and mind of a history professor who has spent his career studying Nazi Germany. As he writes his magnum opus, he also begins to dig a tunnel from his basement, a physical manifestation of his increasingly dark and claustrophobic worldview. The narrative delves into themes of history, memory, identity, and the nature of evil, presenting an unflinching examination of the human capacity for cruelty and self-deception.

    The 7114th Greatest Book of All Time