In a recurring theme for my reading this year, that was a strange book. In particular, it was a strange book for me, insofar as it really read like a book written specifically for me at this specific moment in time:

-In one bizarre scene a talk show about sex is interrupted by John Calvin, a Confederate Civil War colonel, and an alien warning of imminent nuclear annihilation

-The last sixth of the book is basically a fanfic of A Canticle for Leibowitz, perhaps my favorite sci-fi novel. Another short fiction bit is designed to mildly ridicule Carl Sagan.

-Percy discusses how a sex-drenched age is actually at risk of ruinh everything erotic about sex, reducing it to a feat of meaningless gymnastics. The end result of this, he predicts, could be the obliteration of society itself.

-He also breaks down the strange existential terrror when meeting others socially that makes it harder to cultivate friendships or, of course, fall in love. Very kooky timing on that one, Walker. Even the books I read are indirectly lecturing me to ask more people out. Great.

I'm reading Percy because I'm going to Louisiana in June with some college friends and we'll be attending a Walker Percy Weekend outside Baton Rouge. I also have Love in the Ruins which I figure I'll read soon enough. If I like it I may try to read another one or two in time for the trip. Or if I really like it, fuck it, maybe I'll read all his books.

(https://xoxohth.com/thread.php?thread_id=3953515&forum_id=2#35872133)

but you won’t get one by being one yourself

(https://xoxohth.com/thread.php?thread_id=3953515&forum_id=2#35872144)

Percy suggests that a Tennessee Methodist could be a decent replacement in a pinch though.

(https://xoxohth.com/thread.php?thread_id=3953515&forum_id=2#35872149)

If you're moving to novels, check out the Moviegoer first and Love in the Ruins (Percy's masterpiece) second.

(https://xoxohth.com/thread.php?thread_id=3953515&forum_id=2#35872728)