American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis is a novel that was published in 1991. The book portrays the life of Patrick Bateman, a young and wealthy investment banker in New York City. This character is a narcissist, a misogynist, and a sociopath. The novel is a satire of the greed and excesses of the 1980s. It explores the dark side of the American dream and the impact of capitalism on society. In this article, we will provide a review of American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis and explore its themes in detail.
The Plot
The book is divided into chapters that are named after 1980s pop songs. The story is narrated by Patrick Bateman, who is obsessed with consumerism, fashion, and status. He is also a serial killer who murders women, homeless people, and animals. However, no one seems to notice or care about his crimes because of his social status.
The plot of the novel is disturbing and graphic. It depicts the violent and sadistic nature of Patrick Bateman. The book contains scenes of rape, torture, and murder. The violence is described in detail, which can be unsettling for some readers.
The Themes
The novel explores several themes, including the dark side of the American dream, capitalism, and masculinity. The book portrays the negative effects of consumerism and materialism on society. Patrick Bateman’s obsession with status and wealth is a reflection of the greed and excesses of the 1980s.
The book also explores the toxic nature of masculinity. Patrick Bateman is a misogynist who objectifies and dehumanizes women. He views them as objects to be used for his pleasure and then discarded. This behavior is a reflection of the patriarchal society that values men over women.
The Writing Style
Bret Easton Ellis’s writing style is unique and distinctive. He uses a stream-of-consciousness narrative that reflects the fragmented and disjointed nature of Patrick Bateman’s mind. The book also contains numerous pop culture references that are characteristic of the 1980s.
The novel is well-written and engaging, but it can be challenging to read because of its graphic content. The violence and depravity depicted in the book can be unsettling for some readers.
The Impact
American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis has had a significant impact on popular culture. The book has been adapted into a movie and a stage play. It has also inspired numerous songs, artworks, and fashion collections.
The novel has also been the subject of controversy. Some critics have accused it of promoting violence and misogyny. However, others argue that the book is a satire that critiques the excesses of capitalism and the toxic nature of masculinity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis is a disturbing and thought-provoking novel that explores the dark side of the American dream. The book portrays the negative effects of consumerism, materialism, and toxic masculinity on society. The novel’s graphic content can be unsettling for some readers, but its unique writing style and themes make it a compelling read. American Psycho is a book that is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who reads it.
