THE SLOPES OF LEBANON - Softcover

Text: English (translation)
Original Language: Hebrew

The events of the Lebanese incursion and their aftermath have left Israeli novelist Oz disillusioned and embittered. Many of the scathing, sardonic commentaries collected in this book previously were published in the Israeli newspaper Davar during 1982. Oz addresses sociological problems and injustices both real and perceived; provides an extensive review of the film Shoah ; and harshly condemns the government's treatment of Palestinians. Disturbing is Oz's inclusion of unsubstantiated charges that were later shown to be fabrications. Missing is the pained, sympathetic tone of an involved participant that made his In the Land of Israel ( LJ 11/15/83) so powerful. His feeling of disenchantment with his country is profound; in one essay, on the event of receiving a literary prize, Oz comments that literature is expected to provide some comfort and consolation, but that he can offer neither. Nor does he offer insight, only a melancholy whimper.
- Carol R. Glatt, Northeastern Hosp. of Philadelphia
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.