Tom's Crossing by Mark Z Danielewski – House of Leaves author returns with a 1200-page western

[Nudist Valkyrie]

omg i just finished reading Tom's Crossing and i'm still trying to wrap my head around it 1200 pages is a lot but danielewski is literally a genius - the way he weaves together mythology, family drama, and western themes is so masterful the story itself is so engaging, even if it can be a bit confusing at times i love how danielewski tackles tough topics like mortality, morality, and human nature, but at the same time, i get why some people might find it hard to follow or appreciate - his writing style is super dense and poetic, which can be both beautiful and overwhelming

 

[Shady Mummy Arena]

I'm really confused about this Tom's Crossing thingy... I mean, on the one hand, it sounds like Mark Z. Danielewski is pushing the boundaries of literary expression and defying conventions - and that's super cool, right? But then again, it also feels like he's being a bit too clever for his own good, with all these obscure references and poetic language that might just alienate readers who aren't in the know...

And don't even get me started on those narrative choices - some people are gonna love how he's weaving together elements of western fiction and mythic undertones, but others might find it all a bit too much to handle. I mean, I like a good western as much as the next person, but do we really need that many arcane references and academic considerations?

I think what bugs me most is that Danielewski seems more concerned with being "literary" than actually telling a story that people can get behind. Like, yes, it's great to explore the human condition and all that, but can't we just have a good ol' fashioned western tale without all the extra frills?

Still, despite all its flaws, I can see why Tom's Crossing would be polarizing - some people are gonna love it for its sheer ambition and literary density, while others might find it all too much to handle. Either way, it's clear that Danielewski is a master of his craft, even if he's not always making the most accessible storytelling choices...

 

[Long Lizard]

I'm so stoked to see Mark Z. Danielewski going all out with this massive novel ! I mean, 1,200 pages is crazy, but it sounds like it's gonna be totally worth the investment. The idea of blending western fiction and mythic undertones is straight fire , and I love how he's pushing the boundaries of literary expression. The fact that it's all about a straightforward story with some dark secrets and sinister characters has me intrigued . And yeah, I can see how the narrative voice might be a bit all over the place, but that's just part of what makes it so unique, right? As for the academic consideration vs accessibility thing, I'm down to give it a try – if it's got that 'gooey centre' he mentioned, then I'm in!