Mary Gaitskill
Mary Gaitskill is an American author known for her poignant, edgy, and emotionally complex stories and novels. Her work often explores themes of sexuality, power dynamics, and the human capacity for both kindness and cruelty. She gained prominence with her short story collection 'Bad Behavior' in 1988, which includes the story 'Secretary,' later adapted into a film. Gaitskill's notable novels include 'Two Girls, Fat and Thin' and 'Veronica,' the latter of which was nominated for the National Book Award.
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.
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1. Veronica
The novel revolves around a woman named Alison, who was once a fashion model in Paris and New York during the 1980s. The story is told in a non-linear fashion, flashing back and forth between her glamorous past and her present life as a middle-aged, low-paid office worker suffering from Hepatitis C. She reflects on her complex and toxic friendship with the titular character, Veronica, an older, eccentric woman who eventually dies from AIDS. The book explores themes of beauty, youth, mortality, and the harsh realities of life.
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2. Bad Behavior: Stories
"Bad Behavior: Stories" is a collection of short stories that delve into the darker, often unexplored aspects of human relationships and behavior. The narrative navigates through the complex world of love, lust, power, and obsession, focusing on characters who are often marginalized or misunderstood. The stories provide a raw, unfiltered view of human nature, exploring themes of sexual deviance, emotional vulnerability, and societal norms.
