72 pages • 2 hours read
Thomas PynchonGravity's Rainbow
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1973A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Gravity’s Rainbow by Thomas Pynchon is a historical satire set during the last days of World War II, following American soldier Tyrone Slothrop, whose sexual experiences mysteriously correlate with V2 rocket strikes on London and who is pursued by various intelligence officers and psychological researchers for his enigmatic connection to the rockets. The novel contains themes of sexual abuse, colonialism, and war.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Gravity's Rainbow by Thomas Pynchon is lauded for its complex narrative and richly detailed prose, which captivate readers who appreciate dense and intellectually challenging literature. However, some find the novel's intricate structure and extensive length daunting, leading to a polarized reception. Overall, it remains a seminal work in postmodern literature despite its challenges.
Who Should Read Gravity's Rainbow?
Readers who enjoy labyrinthine plots, richly layered narratives, and postmodern complexity will be captivated by Thomas Pynchon's Gravity's Rainbow. Comparable works include James Joyce's Ulysses and Don DeLillo's Underworld. Fans of intricate storytelling and historical fiction with a satirical bent will find it particularly engaging.
RecommendedReading Age
18+yearsBook Details
Society: War
Values/Ideas: Truth & Lies
Emotions/Behavior: Conflict
Historical Fiction
Science-Fiction / Dystopian Fiction
Satire
WWII / World War II
Trauma / Abuse / Violence
Military / War