31 of 35 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars
Perfect Match, Sep 30 2000
By A Customer - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: Strange Case of Edward Gorey (Paperback)
Because Theroux knew Gorey personally, he wisely restricts himself to providing a colorful character portrait, rather than pointless theorizing on Gorey's art. This is a brief book, but, because of the author's lively style, and also certainly because of his unique artistic insight (Theroux and Gorey seem to be two of a kind), much deeper than a more straightforward dissertation might have been.
15 of 16 people found the following review helpful
4.0 out of 5 stars
A Guilty Pleasure, Feb 11 2009
By Mark Dery - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: Strange Case of Edward Gorey (Paperback)
Theroux is a gossipy, waspish writer who never misses an opportunity to flaunt his (admittedly prodigious) erudition or sneer at the booboisie. He name-drops with a shamelessness that would bring a blush to Capote's cheek, and score-settles with relish (especially with his more celebrated brother, for whom he nurses an undying grudge). Bitchy, affected, and too clever by half, his style aspires to Oscar Wilde but more often approximates Paul Lynde. (A compliment, even so.) All of which is what makes The Strange Case an addictively readable book, stuffed with scandalous morsels of gossip, piquant table talk (Gorey and Theroux were friends), the author's staircase wit, and his sharply perceptive insights into the mind and art of the incalcuable, eccentric Gorey. A poisoned bon-bon of a book. To be read aloud to a friend, in bed, with a glass of absinthe on the night table.
13 of 15 people found the following review helpful
4.0 out of 5 stars
Tea with Gorey, Dec 13 2000
By "blissengine" - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: Strange Case of Edward Gorey (Paperback)
Theroux's short book delves into Gorey's persona and influences and gives us a tantalizing glimpse into the world of the much missed Edward Gorey. By limiting himself to his friendship with Gorey, Theroux preserves the air of mystery surrounding the writer and artist. This volume is a welcome addition to anyone's collection of Gorey books and collectibles.