Atlantida By: Pierre Benoit (1886-1962)
Atlantida by Pierre Benoit is a mesmerizing and captivating adventure that takes readers on a thrilling journey through time and culture. Set in early 20th century French Algeria, the novel introduces us to the life of a French officer, Pierre Arronax, who embarks on a perilous quest to uncover the legendary lost city of Atlantis. Benoit’s writing style is elegant and evocative, seamlessly transporting readers to the vibrant and exotic world he paints with words. His attention to detail is astounding, giving depth and intensity to the characters and the settings they inhabit. The lush descriptions of the Algerian landscape and the scorching Sahara Desert make the story come alive, immersing readers in its atmosphere and creating a vivid backdrop for the unfolding adventure. The protagonist, Pierre Arronax, is a compelling and relatable character. Benoit masterfully weaves his inner struggles and personal growth into the larger narrative, adding layers of depth to the overarching mystery. Pierre's determination and curiosity drive the plot forward, allowing readers to empathize with his relentless pursuit of truth. The exploration of Atlantida itself is fascinating, revealing a highly sophisticated and secretive civilization hidden beneath the sands. The detailed accounts of its grandeur, technological advancements, and societal structure are truly awe-inspiring. Benoit skillfully merges historical elements with his own imaginative vision of this lost world, creating an intricate and believable alternate history. However, the true strength of Atlantida lies in its exploration of the cultural clash between France and Algeria. Benoit delves into the complexities of colonialism, exposing the tensions and contradictions that arise from the sudden encounter of two distinct civilizations. Through his characters, he highlights the prejudices, misunderstandings, and power dynamics that pervade such relationships, adding a thought-provoking layer of social commentary to the narrative. Despite its many strengths, Atlantida does have its shortcomings. The pacing at times feels slow, particularly in the middle, as Benoit delves into the intricacies of Atlantida's society. Additionally, some readers may find certain aspects of the plot predictable or clichéd. Nevertheless, these minor flaws pale in comparison to the overall brilliance of the novel. In conclusion, Atlantida is a masterfully crafted adventure that seamlessly blends history, mystery, and romance into a mesmerizing tale. Pierre Benoit's storytelling prowess transports readers to a world teeming with intrigue and reveals the profound impact of cultural clashes on both individuals and societies. It is a remarkable literary achievement that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on anyone who embarks on this extraordinary journey. First Page: "First, I must warn you, before beginning this work, not to be surprised to hear me calling barbarians by Grecian names." PLATO Critias ATLANTIDA Pierre Benoit Translated by Mary C. Tongue and Mary Ross ACE BOOKS, INC. 1120 Avenue of the Americas New York, N.Y. 10036 To André Suarès [Illustration] HASSI INIFEL, NOVEMBER 8, 1903. If the following pages are ever to see the light of day it will be because they have been stolen from me. The delay that I exact before they shall be disclosed assures me of that.[1] [Footnote 1: This letter, together with the manuscript which accompanies it, the latter in a separate sealed envelope, was entrusted by Lieutenant Ferrières, of the 3rd Spahis, the day of the departure of that officer for the Tassili of the Tuareg (Central Sahara), to Sergeant Chatelain. The sergeant was instructed to deliver it, on his next leave, to M. Leroux, Honorary Counsel at the Court of Appeals at Riom, and Lieutenant Ferrières' nearest relative. As this magistrate died suddenly before the expiration of the term of ten years set for the publication of the manuscript here presented, difficulties arose which have delayed its publication up to the present date.] As to this disclosure, let no one distrust my aim when I prepare for it, when I insist upon it... Continue reading book >>

Atlantida By: Pierre Benoit (1886-1962)

Atlantida by Pierre Benoit is a mesmerizing and captivating adventure that takes readers on a thrilling journey through time and culture. Set in early 20th century French Algeria, the novel introduces us to the life of a French officer, Pierre Arronax, who embarks on a perilous quest to uncover the legendary lost city of Atlantis.

Benoit’s writing style is elegant and evocative, seamlessly transporting readers to the vibrant and exotic world he paints with words. His attention to detail is astounding, giving depth and intensity to the characters and the settings they inhabit. The lush descriptions of the Algerian landscape and the scorching Sahara Desert make the story come alive, immersing readers in its atmosphere and creating a vivid backdrop for the unfolding adventure.

The protagonist, Pierre Arronax, is a compelling and relatable character. Benoit masterfully weaves his inner struggles and personal growth into the larger narrative, adding layers of depth to the overarching mystery. Pierre's determination and curiosity drive the plot forward, allowing readers to empathize with his relentless pursuit of truth.

The exploration of Atlantida itself is fascinating, revealing a highly sophisticated and secretive civilization hidden beneath the sands. The detailed accounts of its grandeur, technological advancements, and societal structure are truly awe-inspiring. Benoit skillfully merges historical elements with his own imaginative vision of this lost world, creating an intricate and believable alternate history.

However, the true strength of Atlantida lies in its exploration of the cultural clash between France and Algeria. Benoit delves into the complexities of colonialism, exposing the tensions and contradictions that arise from the sudden encounter of two distinct civilizations. Through his characters, he highlights the prejudices, misunderstandings, and power dynamics that pervade such relationships, adding a thought-provoking layer of social commentary to the narrative.

Despite its many strengths, Atlantida does have its shortcomings. The pacing at times feels slow, particularly in the middle, as Benoit delves into the intricacies of Atlantida's society. Additionally, some readers may find certain aspects of the plot predictable or clichéd. Nevertheless, these minor flaws pale in comparison to the overall brilliance of the novel.

In conclusion, Atlantida is a masterfully crafted adventure that seamlessly blends history, mystery, and romance into a mesmerizing tale. Pierre Benoit's storytelling prowess transports readers to a world teeming with intrigue and reveals the profound impact of cultural clashes on both individuals and societies. It is a remarkable literary achievement that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on anyone who embarks on this extraordinary journey.

First Page:

"First, I must warn you, before beginning this work, not to be surprised to hear me calling barbarians by Grecian names." PLATO Critias

ATLANTIDA

Pierre Benoit

Translated by Mary C. Tongue and Mary Ross

ACE BOOKS, INC. 1120 Avenue of the Americas New York, N.Y. 10036

To André Suarès

[Illustration]

HASSI INIFEL, NOVEMBER 8, 1903.

If the following pages are ever to see the light of day it will be because they have been stolen from me. The delay that I exact before they shall be disclosed assures me of that.[1]

[Footnote 1: This letter, together with the manuscript which accompanies it, the latter in a separate sealed envelope, was entrusted by Lieutenant Ferrières, of the 3rd Spahis, the day of the departure of that officer for the Tassili of the Tuareg (Central Sahara), to Sergeant Chatelain. The sergeant was instructed to deliver it, on his next leave, to M. Leroux, Honorary Counsel at the Court of Appeals at Riom, and Lieutenant Ferrières' nearest relative. As this magistrate died suddenly before the expiration of the term of ten years set for the publication of the manuscript here presented, difficulties arose which have delayed its publication up to the present date.]

As to this disclosure, let no one distrust my aim when I prepare for it, when I insist upon it... Continue reading book >>

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