The Greatest "Allegorical, Modernist, Drama, Fiction" Books Since 1950

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Genres

Allegorical

Allegorical books are a genre of literature that use symbolic characters, events, and settings to convey a deeper meaning or message. These stories often have a moral or philosophical lesson that is meant to be interpreted by the reader. Allegories can be found in many different types of literature, including novels, short stories, and poetry. They are a powerful tool for exploring complex ideas and emotions, and can be used to comment on social, political, or religious issues. Overall, allegorical books are a thought-provoking and engaging genre that challenges readers to think critically and reflect on the world around them.

Modernist

Modernist literature is a category of books that emerged in the early 20th century, characterized by a break from traditional literary forms and a focus on individual experience and perception. Modernist writers experimented with language, form, and structure, often using stream-of-consciousness narration and fragmented storytelling to convey the complexity and ambiguity of modern life. Themes of alienation, disillusionment, and the search for meaning are common in modernist literature, which reflects the cultural and social upheavals of the time. Overall, modernist literature is a challenging and thought-provoking genre that continues to influence contemporary literature and culture.

Drama

Drama is a genre of literature that typically deals with serious and emotional themes, often exploring the complexities of human relationships and the struggles individuals face in their lives. These books often feature intense character development and intricate plotlines, delving into the depths of human experience and the challenges of navigating the world around us. From family dramas to political intrigue, the drama genre encompasses a wide range of stories that aim to captivate readers with their raw and powerful storytelling.

Fiction

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  1. 1. Waiting for Godot by Samuel Beckett

    "Waiting for Godot" is a play that explores themes of existentialism, despair, and the human condition through the story of two characters, Vladimir and Estragon, who wait endlessly for a man named Godot, who never arrives. While they wait, they engage in a variety of discussions and encounter three other characters. The play is characterized by its minimalistic setting and lack of a traditional plot, leaving much to interpretation.

    The 96th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Riders In The Chariot by Patrick White

    This novel is a rich tapestry of themes and characters, interweaving the lives of four diverse individuals in post-World War II Australia. Each character, an eccentric Holocaust survivor, a reclusive heiress, a visionary Aboriginal artist, and a passionate washerwoman, is marked by intense spiritual experiences and a sense of being an outsider. Their paths converge in a narrative that explores the depths of human suffering, the potential for redemption, and the complex interplay between the sacred and the profane. Through their interconnected stories, the book delves into the moral and existential dilemmas of the human condition, offering a profound meditation on faith, meaning, and the possibility of transcendence amidst the harsh realities of everyday life.

    The 3400th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. A Fable by William Faulkner

    This novel is a World War I allegory where a Christ-like figure emerges within a French regiment, sparking a mutiny. The figure, a corporal, persuades his squadron to not attack in the bloody conflict, leading to their court-martial and execution. The narrative explores themes of war, morality, and the human spirit, with the corporal's actions causing a ripple effect, impacting the lives of soldiers, officers, and even a Jesuit priest.

    The 3669th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. The Impenetrable Madam X by Griselda Gambaro

    "The Impenetrable Madam X" is a provocative play that delves into the complexities of human relationships and societal expectations. Set against a backdrop of surrealism and absurdity, the narrative follows the titular character, a woman shrouded in mystery and power, who interacts with various other characters in a series of disjointed scenes. Through sharp dialogue and symbolic interactions, the play explores themes of identity, power dynamics, and the struggle for understanding within the confines of a world that oscillates between the real and the fantastical. The work challenges audiences to question the nature of reality and the masks people wear in their daily lives.

    The 4787th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Three Novels by Witold Gombrowicz

    "Three Novels" is a collection that brings together a trio of existential and absurdist works exploring the fluidity of identity, the nature of form, and the rebellion against societal norms. The narratives delve into the lives of characters who grapple with the pressures of social conformity, the absurdity of existence, and the struggle for authenticity in a world that constantly tries to impose its own definitions and structures. Through a blend of dark humor, philosophical musings, and surreal events, the collection presents a unique and critical examination of the human condition, challenging readers to question their own perceptions of reality and the roles they play within it.

    The 7168th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

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Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download