Against Nature by J. K. Huysmans
The novel follows the life of an eccentric aristocrat who retreats from society to live in isolation, dedicating himself to the pursuit of excessive aestheticism. He surrounds himself with art, literature, and music, and indulges in sensual pleasures and extravagant interior decoration. The protagonist's obsession with artifice over nature and his quest for absolute individualism and self-gratification are explored, reflecting the decadent movement of the late 19th-century France.
The 584th greatest book of all time
If you're interested in seeing the ranking details on this book go here
This book is on the following lists:
- 235th on The 500 best books of all time from Culture Café users (Culture Café)
- 1110th on Our Users' Favorite Books of All Time (The Greatest Books Users)
- The Best Classics (The Times)
- 1001 Books You Must Read Before You Die (The Book)
- 50 Best Cult Books (Telegraph)
- As if You Don't Have Enough to Read, Fiction Edition (New York Times)