An interesting book that I was reluctant to read, simply because I’m never comfortable giving my time to creators that are of a communist persuasion. But to have a valid opinion, they need to be read, listened to and examined. I’m sure – without looking this up as I write – that Sartre, in a play, wrote ‘hell is other people’. And Orwell, I have a little more time for as he was aware of excesses of power, demonstrated in ‘1984‘ and ‘Animal Farm‘. Although they all produce works worth reading, it’s a shame that many writers and thinkers were incurably infected with Marxist ideas; many remain so.
Nausea by Jean-Paul Sartre is a seminal existentialist novel that delves into the philosophical themes of existence, freedom, and the nature of reality. Set in the fictional town of Bouville, the story is presented as the diary of Antoine Roquentin, a solitary, introspective man who becomes increasingly alienated from the world around him.
The novel begins with Roquentin’s realisation of the absurdity and emptiness of existence. He experiences a profound sense of nausea, an existential sickness, upon recognising the inherent meaninglessness of life. Roquentin grapples with the idea of existence preceding essence, a fundamental tenet of existentialism, which suggests that individuals are responsible for creating their own meaning and purpose in life.
As Roquentin reflects on his past experiences and relationships, he becomes disillusioned with the idea of human connection and the pursuit of happiness. He rejects societal norms and conventions, feeling trapped in a world devoid of authenticity and genuine human interaction.
Throughout the novel, Roquentin engages in philosophical musings on topics such as time, consciousness, and the nature of reality. He experiences moments of existential despair and nihilism, questioning the validity of his own existence and the existence of the external world.
One of the central themes of Nausea is the concept of freedom. Roquentin grapples with the idea of free will and the implications of living in a world where individuals are ultimately responsible for their own choices and actions. He struggles to find meaning in a world that seems devoid of inherent purpose or significance – seems quite nihilistic, yes?
As the novel progresses, Roquentin’s sense of alienation and existential despair intensifies. He becomes increasingly detached from reality, experiencing hallucinations and delusions as he confronts the absurdity of his own existence.
In the end, Roquentin comes to a realisation that he must embrace his own freedom and create meaning in his life through his own actions and choices. While the novel ends ambiguously, with Roquentin contemplating the possibility of suicide, it ultimately suggests that the search for meaning and authenticity is an ongoing struggle that requires continual introspection and self-discovery.
Overall, Nausea is a profound exploration of existential angst and the human condition. Sartre’s vivid prose and philosophical insights make it a work that continues to resonate with readers today. No doubt there’s a crusty old copy in every atheist’s pocket. I might add that a bunch of commies would share a single copy, however, the one among them who is more equal than the others might just allow them half a page apiece – then shoot the others and take it back.
Wording 