Ancient evenings by norman mailer

"Ancient Evenings" is a novel by Norman Mailer, published in 1983. The book is a sweeping narrative that spans thousands of years, from ancient Egypt to the present day, and explores themes of love, power, and the human condition.

The story centers around a fictional character named Seth, who is a priest in ancient Egypt. Seth is a complex and conflicted figure, torn between his duty to the gods and his own desires and ambitions. As the novel progresses, Seth's story becomes intertwined with those of other characters, including a pharaoh, a queen, and a group of rebels.

Throughout the book, Mailer explores a wide range of themes, including the nature of power, the role of the individual in society, and the search for meaning and purpose. He also delves into the complexities of human relationships, including love, sex, and friendship.

One of the most striking aspects of "Ancient Evenings" is its use of language. Mailer's prose is dense and lyrical, with a rich, poetic quality that evokes the grandeur and majesty of ancient Egypt. He also employs a range of narrative techniques, including stream-of-consciousness, dialogue, and descriptive passages, to create a sense of immediacy and intimacy.

The book has been praised for its ambition and scope, as well as its nuanced and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition. However, some critics have noted that the novel's dense, allusive style can be challenging to follow, and that the characters and plot can be difficult to keep track of.

Overall, "Ancient Evenings" is a complex and thought-provoking novel that explores the human condition in all its complexity. It is a must-read for fans of Mailer's work, as well as anyone interested in exploring the intersection of literature and history.