Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1838166 in Books
• Published on: 2000-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback

Customer Reviews

Brilliant
Michael Arditti's work is absolutely brilliant. After reading Easter, I just had to find every other book he has written. Easter is by far the hardest read so far, although enthralling once you get used to the style. The Celibate is a slightly easier read and I just couldnt put it down. It is so refreshing to get an intelligent read on a gay theme. I would recommend this to anyone and am now reading his other books somewhat dismayed that when I have finished the 'Pagan' books there are no more. Where do i go then??? Any suggestions as to similarly great reads would be will received!

Mixed feelings
I think if I had known that a strong religious theme ran through this novel I probably would not have picked it in the first place. However having embarked upon reading it, I was compelled to continue, not that I found it an easy task. At times I found it hard to maintain interest as it digressed down various side tracks of history or philosophy (although I appreciate the significance); and as for the religious element, I invariably disagreed with the scriptural interpretation or application, at times found it even offensive. At other times the nature of the story made it hard going, but then particularly none the less compelling. I found the various turns in the story unpredictable and so adding to its interest. Its delivery, as a series of monologues from the unnamed ordinand's appointments with his psychiatrist, enabled for an element of surprise.
Despite my reservations, it was a very rewarding book, and I'm glad I stuck with it.

Thought provoking and profound
We follow the protagonist on a journey of despair, intense relationships, passionate sexuality and reflections upon his relationship with God and religion. His own desperation is echoed in the lives of his friends, some of whom have AIDs. He continues his struggle to find meaning, partly through radical members of the church and by reflecting upon the experience of the people of Eyam who also suffered a plague.

Arditti's first novel is complex, thought-provoking, deeply spiritual and profound.