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The second part of this book (equivalent to the last third of the whole) is a very compelling and descriptive read. This is where the effects of opium on De Quincey's person are chiefly discussed, and is by far the most interesting part of the book.
However, the first few pages are spent by responding to criticism aimed at the first edition of the text. I have nothing positive to say about this part.
The two thirds that follow recount events in De Quinceys's teen years, which do give some background to his lifelong pains, but ultimately go on for too long for me. This relatively lengthy account is also sometimes interrupted by tangents on various cultural topics as the author sees fit. In my personal opinion, some of them provided insight and were interesting, some not, but regardless I'd rather there be as few as possible.
I do have to add that my favourite part about this book was De Quincey's style, especially his humour.
The second part of this book (equivalent to the last third of the whole) is a very compelling and descriptive read. This is where the effects of opium on De Quincey's person are chiefly discussed, and is by far the most interesting part of the book.
However, the first few pages are spent by responding to criticism aimed at the first edition of the text. I have nothing positive to say about this part.
The two thirds that follow recount events in De Quinceys's teen years, which do give some background to his lifelong pains, but ultimately go on for too long for me. This relatively lengthy account is also sometimes interrupted by tangents on various cultural topics as the author sees fit. In my personal opinion, some of them provided insight and were interesting, some not, but regardless I'd rather there be as few as possible.
I do have to add that my favourite part about this book was De Quincey's style, especially his humour.