The Dream Songs by John Berryman

The book is a collection of 385 poems that form a deep and complex portrait of the protagonist's troubled psyche, as he grapples with a myriad of themes including loss, despair, race, and the fragmented nature of the self. The narrative is characterized by its innovative structure, shifting perspectives, and a unique blend of high diction and colloquial language. The protagonist's journey is marked by moments of intense emotional turmoil and self-reflection, often conveyed through a dialogue between different aspects of his personality, as he seeks meaning and redemption in a chaotic world.

The 2809th greatest book of all time


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Total Points: 133

Since this book was first published in 1964, there is a penalty of 0%. The age adjusted score is 133.0.

This is to prevent newer books from reaching super high on the ranked list of the greatest books of all time. The greatest books should also stand the test of time.