Veronica by Mary Gaitskill
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.
The 2728th greatest book of all time
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This book is on the following lists:
- 6th on A Premature Attempt at the 21st Century Canon (Vulture)
- The 10 Best Books Through Time (New York Times)
- The Great American Novels (The Atlantic)