I have only read four of his novels to date. Opinions:
The Power and the Glory (1940) - powerfully realistic about military oppression of the Mexican clergy, and the dilemmas of the whisky priest. However, unremittingly grim.
Our Man In Havana (1958) - doesn't work for me at all, despite some interesting observations about pre-Castro Cuba. Supposedly a comedy.
The Comedians (1966) - This was the pick of the four for me: great characters and deep empathy and compassion in how relationships are portrayed. A masterpiece IMHO.
The Human Factor (1978) - still feels controversial; apologetics on behalf of Philby and others who spied for the Soviets. Unforgivable morally given what we know about the USSR (see also Putin). On the other hand, the portrayal of English manners in the immediate pre-Thatcher, pre-Falklands era is interesting.
The Power and the Glory (1940) - powerfully realistic about military oppression of the Mexican clergy, and the dilemmas of the whisky priest. However, unremittingly grim.
Our Man In Havana (1958) - doesn't work for me at all, despite some interesting observations about pre-Castro Cuba. Supposedly a comedy.
The Comedians (1966) - This was the pick of the four for me: great characters and deep empathy and compassion in how relationships are portrayed. A masterpiece IMHO.
The Human Factor (1978) - still feels controversial; apologetics on behalf of Philby and others who spied for the Soviets. Unforgivable morally given what we know about the USSR (see also Putin). On the other hand, the portrayal of English manners in the immediate pre-Thatcher, pre-Falklands era is interesting.
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