Ulysses Read-along (Part 4)

Ulysses – James Joyce (Read-along)

Evan’s ESS = 3.5 out of 10

Erin’s ESS = out of 10

Content = R (Adult Content, Language, Sexual Content, Incomprehensible Narratives, Mother of all Run on Sentences)

Why:  It’s no secret that Ulysses has been having his way with us over the past month.  Today however; let the joyous news be spread, the wicked old witch at last is dead!!! 

Two months ago, in our considerable naivety, we committed to undertake the oft esteemed Ulysses.  While this turned out to be the most troublesome read of our short literary endeavors, we owe a debt of gratitude to Fizzy Thoughts for hosting this painful event.  Had it not been for the accountability of a few other brave readers, we’d never have made it across the finish line.  Thoughts of abandonment tempted us throughout, yet in the end we are proud of our accomplishment.  Not entirely sure what we accomplished, but at least it’s out there.

Our thoughts on the final check-in (Part 3 of the novel) are pretty much the same as before.  If Mr. Bloom or Stephen ever invited us on a night out on the town, we’d decline on the spot.  Actually, if either Mr. Bloom or Stephen’s phone numbers appeared on our caller ID, we’d ignore the call and leave town immediately. 

Part 3 contained more incoherent ramblings as the characters retreated back to Mr. Bloom’s house after a night of debauchery, paranoia, and hallucinations (at one point a Hobgoblin made an appearance, which was awesome).  Episode 17 should be highlighted for its uniqueness, considering the entire narrative was written in the form of questions and answers.  And then there was Episode 18 – Stream-of-Consciousness in its most evil form.  No punctuation.  No coherent thought.  No way we’re reading anything authored by James Joyce ever again.             

Throughout the novel, the question on the table has been James Joyce – Insane or Genius?  Our response is, YES – followed by a few other additives that are unfit for this blog.  Ulysses was an exercise in anger management, perseverance, and lunacy.  Honestly, we’re just ready to be done.  Good riddance!