Vol. 2 - Miss MacIntosh, My Darling

Wow! What an epic novel. I truly took my time reading this one. I savored each line over a period of nine months, thirteen interceding books, six birthdays, five holidays, and an anniversary. So, what is my point? If you have the patience, it is a wonderful read.

What I enjoyed most about MMMD is the author’s painterly, dream-scape imagery. She created a panoramic impression of society in all its forms – pathological, illusionistic, and beautiful- as witnessed and understood by her characters. If you think Young’s portrayals chimerical, bear in mind that, her characters were depictions of people she knew during her lifetime.

Young’s love for poetry and words is evident. She has the ability to describe the same thing in many different ways. Although sometimes tedious, her work is definitely not boring. Each reconstruction feels new and separate from the other. The effect is richly developed characters whose experiences, eccentricities, delusions, and metaphysical journeys are fascinating.

It has been said that MMMD is the American version of Ulysses, a tribute to the unique characteristics of Young’s writing. Whatever the interpretation or review, my recommendation is to read this novel slowly and resign yourself to the fact that, if you want to understand the full scope of Young’s work, it will take a longer time to read than other books of this length. There is so much to absorb and think about on all different levels. However, do not panic, nine months was idiosyncratic to my love for this masterpiece. One to two months is typical for the average reader. Enjoy! ( )

Young’s hugely ambitious novel falls somewhere between the logic of surrealism and magic realism. This modern classic offers a cyclic family saga told in long, sustained stream-of-consciousness passages. Open any page at random, and prepare to be dazzled by the beauty of its imagery. A favourite of poets and visual artist.