The Erasers
The Erasers
Book Brief
Beta256
Novel • Fiction
France • 1950s
1964
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In The Erasers, a person named Wallas investigates a supposed murder that mirrors the Oedipus myth. Set in a modern, labyrinth-like city, the narrative explores themes of perception and reality. Wallas encounters a series of enigmatic clues, suggesting the complex interplay between investigator and criminal, highlighting the absurdity of certainty in human experiences.
Mysterious
Unnerving
Dark
Suspenseful
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
1,858 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Erasers by Alain Robbe-Grillet is hailed for its innovative narrative style and intricate structure, emblematic of the nouveau roman movement. Its enigmatic plot challenges traditional storytelling, intriguing some but alienating others. Critics appreciate the cerebral engagement demanded by its layered mystery, though its lack of emotional depth may deter those seeking character-driven tales.
Who Should Read The Erasers?
Readers who appreciate Alain Robbe-Grillet's The Erasers are likely fans of avant-garde literature and the nouveau roman style. They enjoy complex narratives and philosophical underpinnings akin to works like James Joyce's Ulysses or Franz Kafka's The Trial, favoring ambiguity and innovative storytelling over conventional plot structures.
1,858 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Erasers is considered a quintessential example of the "Nouveau Roman" or "New Novel" movement, where traditional plot and character development are largely abandoned in favor of complex structures and a focus on the minutiae of daily life.
Alain Robbe-Grillet, the author of The Erasers, was also a filmmaker and often incorporated themes from his novels into his screenplays, blending his narrative style across different art forms.
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Published in 1953, The Erasers marked Alain Robbe-Grillet's debut as a novelist, establishing him as a central figure in mid-20th century experimental literature.
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256
Novel • Fiction
France • 1950s
1964
Adult
18+ years
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