Why people recommend it
Grendel is a brilliant philosophical novel by John Gardner that reimagines the classic Old English epic poem Beowulf entirely from the perspective of the titular monster. During an episode of The Book Review titled "John Grisham on 'The Whistler'" on July 18, 2024, John Williams discussed the book with great admiration. Williams praised Gardner's imaginative achievement in retelling the traditional heroic narrative through the eyes of the outcast creature, labeling the work as a truly great novel. His commentary highlighted the book's rich existential themes, dark humor, and poetic language, which challenge readers to reconsider traditional notions of heroism and monstrosity. By bringing up Gardner's work on the podcast, Williams pointed listeners toward a sophisticated postmodern classic that breathes new life into ancient mythologies through a deeply empathetic and psychologically complex antagonist.
Who recommended it
- John Williams Recommended
John Williams — 1 mention
“John Gardner uh did a take on Beowolf that was completely from the monsters perspective the novel grindle great book”