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Autobiography of Red

A queer coming-of-age tale reimagining Greek mythology

Anne Carson author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Vintage Publishing

Published:4th Jul '24

£9.99

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Autobiography of Red cover

This captivating narrative explores Geryon's journey of love and self-discovery, making Autobiography of Red a profound modern classic.

This narrative takes readers on a volcanic journey into the soul of Geryon, a winged red monster. Autobiography of Red is not just a coming-of-age love story; it is a queer retelling of a Greek myth that resonates with modern themes. Geryon, tormented by his brother during his childhood, seeks solace in a parallel world where photography becomes his escape. In this realm, he discovers a deep love for Herakles, a golden young man who ultimately leaves him at the height of their passion, leaving Geryon to retreat further into his own created world, captivated by his own unique identity and existence.

As Geryon navigates the complexities of love and self-discovery, his journey is interrupted by Herakles’ unexpected return, shattering the fragile reality Geryon has built around himself. Autobiography of Red captures the intricate emotions and truths of being different, exploring themes of love, identity, and the struggles that come with them. The deceptively simple narrative is rich with layers of meaning, making it a modern epic that resonates deeply with readers.

This extraordinary work is a blend of moving, disturbing, and delightful elements, creating an engaging experience for anyone who picks it up. With praise from notable authors, it stands out as a profound exploration of love and self, inviting readers to reflect on their own journeys.

Anne Carson is, for me, the most exciting poet writing in English today. Autobiography of Red is a wonderful, mongrel work, a strange and ambitious bridge between classical texts and contemporary autobiographical poetry
Her work is full of moments of startling originality and beauty. The poems play with character and plot, myth and magic; they are rich with attitude and wit and the undertow of grief. If she was a prose writer she would instantly be recognised as a genius * Times Literary Supplement *
Anne Carson is a daring, learned, unsettling writer. Autobiography of Red, which perhaps comes closest to representing the range of her voice and gifts, is a spellbinding achievement
I'm a big fan of her work... There's a joy in encountering a mind that takes nothing for granted... She pinpoints the collision of oracle and anachronism

ISBN: 9781784879020

Dimensions: 199mm x 129mm x 11mm

Weight: 122g

160 pages