William H. Gass
William H. Gass (1924–2017) was an acclaimed American novelist, short-story writer, essayist, critic, and philosophy professor. Known for his stylistic complexity and metafictional techniques, Gass's works often explore themes of subjectivity, language, and the construction of reality. Notable works include 'Omensetter's Luck', 'The Tunnel', and 'Middle C'. His essays and literary criticism have been influential, and he received several major literary awards over his career.
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. In the Heart of the Heart of the Country
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.
-
2. Omensetter's Luck
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.
-
3. Fiction and the Figures of Life
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.
-
4. The World Within the Word
"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.
-
5. The Tunnel
"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.
