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Susan Tarrence's avatar

I hear that. Haven't loved meeting him though I respect some of what he writes -- like that ashy guy. Perfection.

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Susan Tarrence's avatar

Once again, you translate my gut reactions into words. Updike's left me cold, too, because he is so cold and unsympathetic toward his characters, so bitter, so sour. It seems that he's often nursing some teeny seed of hate so that it can grow into something larger. This piece makes me think about faces -- much appreciated!

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Ben Dolnick's avatar

Thanks Susan! "seed of hate" is tough but smart. When I read an Updike book I feel like I haven't met a bunch of characters -- I've met Updike.

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