Audiofile
Hemingways passion for bullfighting is perfectly mirrored in the strong narration of Boyd Gaines. The authors portrait of the men who step into coliseums filled with cheering fans to face possible injury and death may seem a bit dated, but Gaines delivers all the intricacies of the sport with the immediacy of a season that had just ended. Fans of the great writer will find the writing style and vivid imagery deftly delivered. The author is obviously impressed with men facing death, and Gaines does a wonderful job of creating drama and tension as the conflict of man versus animal plays out to its ultimate conclusion. R.O. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine-- Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine
Présentation de l'éditeur
Still considered one of the best books ever written about bullfighting, Death in the Afternoon is an impassioned look at the sport by one of its true aficionados. It reflects Hemingway's conviction that bullfighting was more than mere sport and reveals a rich source of inspiration for his art. The unrivaled drama of bullfighting, with its rigorous combination of athleticism and artistry, and its requisite display of grace under pressure, ignited Hemingway's imagination. Here he describes and explains the technical aspects of this dangerous ritual and "the emotional and spiritual intensity and pure classic beauty that can be produced by a man, an animal, and a piece of scarlet serge draped on a stick." Seen through his eyes, bullfighting becomes a richly choreographed ballet, with performers who range from awkward amateurs to masters of great elegance and cunning.
A fascinating look at the history and grandeur of bullfighting, Death in the Afternoon is also a deeper contemplation of the nature of cowardice and bravery, sport and tragedy, and is enlivened throughout by Hemingway's sharp commentary on life and literature.
