This Book Fits The Cliche Of "Great American Novel!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

                                      Even more than "Look Homeward, Angel," this also autobiographical work is a meditation on life and culture in America and Europe in the early years of the twentieth century. In many ways, it foreshadows such later works as Steinbeck's "The Grapes Of Wrath" and "East Of Eden,"  E.L. Doctorow' "Ragtime," Philip Roth's "American Pastoral," even Jonathan Franzen's "The Corrections," all of which touch upon the America of their time.  All are great American works by great American authors.

                                       Do not be daunted by the length of Wolfe's work. It flows like butter, in a manner that is almost Joycean, and yet it is impossible to put down.  I was riveted to it from the start, and I would not rest, darlings, until I finished it.

                                         I learned about being an artist in the country at this time period, the social mores here and abroad, and, as the title suggests, the only way to truly face the past is to keep moving forward.

                                           This was one of the most satisfying of my recent reads. I am so glad I took the time to read Thomas Wolfe.  He is a must for everyone who values literature.

                                             Even Grace Metalious was influenced by him!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!