Down for so long that it seems like up to me (Penguin Twentieth-century Classics)
“Been Down So Long It Looks Like Up To Me” is a novel written by Richard Fariña, published in 1966. Set in the 1960s, the story follows the adventures of Gnossos Pappadopoulis, a rebellious and free-spirited college student who navigates the turbulent social and political landscape of the time. Fariña’s work captures the essence of the counterculture movement and explores themes of identity, alienation, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world. Through its vivid characters and vivid prose, “Been Down So Long It Looks Like Up To Me” offers a poignant and thought-provoking commentary on the complexities of youth and the pursuit of authenticity.
Been Down So Long It Looks Like Up To Me Plot Summary
“Been Down So Long It Looks Like Up To Me” is a novel by Richard Fariña, published in 1966, that tells the story of Gnossos Pappadopoulis, a college student at Cornell University in the 1960s. The novel is considered a classic of the counterculture movement of the decade, and it explores themes of rebellion, identity, and disillusionment.
The novel begins with Gnossos feeling lost and disconnected from the world around him. He is a student at Cornell University and is struggling to find meaning in his life. He is disillusioned with the establishment and seeks to break free from the constraints of society. Gnossos is a rebellious figure, railing against the conformity and materialism that he sees all around him.
Gnossos becomes involved with a group of artists, writers, and musicians who share his disdain for the status quo. He embarks on a series of adventures with this group, including trips to Mexico and Europe, where he experiences a range of different cultures and ways of life. Along the way, he falls in love, gets involved in political activism, and grapples with his own sense of identity.
As Gnossos drifts from one adventure to the next, he begins to question the very nature of reality. He becomes obsessed with the idea of the “underground,” a hidden world beneath the surface of society where true freedom and authenticity can be found. He explores this underground world through drugs, music, and sex, seeking to escape the constraints of the mainstream and find a deeper truth within himself.
Throughout the novel, Gnossos struggles with his own sense of purpose and direction. He is constantly searching for meaning in a world that he finds empty and meaningless. He grapples with his own contradictions and inner conflicts, trying to reconcile his desire for freedom with the constraints of society.
As the novel progresses, Gnossos’ quest for meaning becomes increasingly desperate. He becomes more and more disillusioned with the world around him, feeling trapped and claustrophobic in a society that seems to offer no real alternatives. He begins to spiral into a cycle of self-destructive behavior, alienating those around him and ultimately endangering his own well-being.
As Gnossos’ journey reaches its climax, he finds himself at a crossroads. He must confront the consequences of his actions and decide whether to continue down the path of rebellion and self-destruction or to seek a more meaningful connection with the world around him. In the end, Gnossos is forced to confront his own inner demons and come to terms with the reality of his own existence.
“Been Down So Long It Looks Like Up To Me” is a powerful and provocative novel that offers a searing critique of the mainstream society of the 1960s. It explores the tension between conformity and rebellion, authenticity and conformity, and the search for meaning in a world that seems devoid of it.
The novel is a seminal work of the counterculture movement of the 1960s, offering a raw and unflinching portrayal of a generation in upheaval. It speaks to the struggles and aspirations of young people seeking to break free from the constraints of society and find their own voice in a world that seems determined to silence them.
In conclusion, “Been Down So Long It Looks Like Up To Me” is a novel that continues to resonate with readers today. Its themes of rebellion, disillusionment, and self-discovery are as relevant now as they were in the 1960s. Through the character of Gnossos Pappadopoulis, Richard Fariña captures the essence of a generation searching for meaning and struggling to find their place in a rapidly changing world. It is a novel that challenges readers to confront their own assumptions and beliefs and to question the very nature of reality itself.
Been Down So Long It Looks Like Up To Me Key Takeaway
The key takeaway from Richard Farina’s novel “Been Down So Long It Looks Like Up To Me” is the exploration of the turbulent nature of youth, rebellion, and the search for identity in America during the 1960s. The protagonist, Gnossos Pappadopoulis, embarks on a journey of self-discovery that leads him through a series of countercultural experiences, including drug use, political activism, and encounters with a variety of colorful characters.
Through Gnossos’ perspective, the novel delves into the disillusionment and disillusionment of a generation coming of age in a time of social upheaval and uncertainty. Farina captures the spirit of the era through his vivid descriptions of the music, art, and political movements that defined the 1960s, while also highlighting the personal struggles and inner conflicts of his characters.
Ultimately, “Been Down So Long It Looks Like Up To Me” serves as a reflection on the complexities of youth and the search for meaning in a world that often seems chaotic and overwhelming. The novel’s themes of alienation, rebellion, and the quest for authenticity resonate with readers of all generations, making it a timeless and thought-provoking work of literature.
Conclusion
In the conclusion of “Been Down So Long It Looks Like Up To Me”, the protagonist gnarled, confused and tormented wit Bichi thinks he has killed someone. He is in a state of dismay and confusion, not sure what to do next. The novel leaves readers with a feeling of uncertainty and unease, as Bichi’s future is left open-ended.
Review: This book is a gripping and intense read, delving deep into the human psyche and exploring themes of identity, alienation, and the search for meaning. The writing is complex and evocative, drawing readers into Bichi’s world and his struggles as he navigates the tumultuous waters of the 1960s counterculture.
Recommendation: Fans of gritty and introspective literature, as well as those interested in exploring the societal upheavals of the 1960s, will enjoy this book. Readers who appreciate complex characters and thought-provoking themes will find “Been Down So Long It Looks Like Up To Me” a rewarding and engaging read.
Other books that fans of this novel may enjoy include “On the Road” by Jack Kerouac, “The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test” by Tom Wolfe, and “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger. These novels explore similar themes of rebellion, self-discovery, and societal critique, making them excellent choices for readers who enjoy thought-provoking and immersive literature.
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