620. A Void

A Void
Georges Perec
1969
Around 290 pages

Well, the book cover really gets straight to the point. This is the novel that doesn't use the letter "e." Interestingly, the translators all had to take on this task as well, making modifications based on the rules of their language (for example, the Russian version doesn't use the letter "o" instead).

So I guess that's remarkable. But does anybody actually want to read a book without e's? It seems pointless to follow these characters and their journey, when they are so hopelessly restrained in their speech and actions. The characters are self-aware enough to realize their predicament after awhile, making them feel like they are in a Scream movie. Any gimmick, even if it's brilliantly executed, wears thin after awhile.

It's funny that the loss of letter "e" essentially erases Georges Perec's identity (Amanda would only get stronger in that world). Like Queneau, Perec does a wonderful job with the restrictions he has placed on himself, but that doesn't necessarily make for a compelling read.

RATING: ***--

Interesting Facts:

Translated into over ten languages.

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