The Bridge by Iain Banks

The novel is a surreal and complex tale that weaves together multiple narratives and genres, centered around a man who awakens with amnesia on a massive, never-ending bridge that spans an entire world. As he tries to recover his memories and understand his place within this bizarre and sprawling structure, the story delves into his past life, exploring themes of identity, mental health, and the nature of reality. The bridge itself serves as a metaphor for the protagonist's mind and the divisions within it, with various sections representing different aspects of his psyche and history. Through its intricate plot and rich symbolism, the book challenges readers to consider the constructs of the self and the intricate connections between our inner and outer worlds.

The 5020th greatest book of all time

Ranking Details:

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Total Points: 102

Since this book was first published in 1986, there is a penalty of 19.2%. The age adjusted score is 82.42.

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.