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Absolute Beginners by Colin MacInnes

Introduction

A Brief Overview of The Absolute Beginners

The Absolute Beginners is a 1959 British novel by Colin MacInnes. It is considered one of the pioneering works of post-war British literature.

Key Facts

  • Published in 1958
  • First published in the New Statesman magazine
  • Second book in the series, following The Balloonist and The Long Half-Life
  • Won the 1960 James Tait Black Memorial Prize for Fiction
  • Adapted into a film in 1973

Historical Context

The Absolute Beginners is set in post-war London, exploring themes of alienation, social class, and rebellion. It was written during a time of significant cultural change and upheaval.

Significant Contributions

  1. First novel to explore the "new" British youth culture: The Absolute Beginners marked a significant departure from traditional depictions of British youth in literature.
  2. Exploration of alienation and social class: The novel offers a nuanced portrayal of post-war Britain, highlighting the struggles of working-class individuals and their relationships with wealthier society.
  3. Influence on later British literary movements: The Absolute Beginners has been cited as an influence by writers such as John Fowles and Martin Amis.

Notable Attractions

  • The novel's unique blend of realism, satire, and social commentary
  • MacInnes' vivid depiction of post-war London's underground clubs and music scene
  • The character of Paul Lowe, a charismatic but troubled young man who serves as the novel's protagonist

Key Facts about Absolute Beginners (continued)

  • The book is known for its frank and unflinching portrayal of sex, violence, and teenage angst.
  • MacInnes' writing style is characterized by his use of dialect and slang, which adds to the novel's sense of realism.
  • The Absolute Beginners has been reprinted several times since its initial publication, including a 2013 edition that includes an introduction by Simon Hindsley.

Historical Context (continued)

Cultural and Social Change

The post-war period in Britain was marked by significant cultural and social change. The novel reflects the tensions between traditional values and the emerging new youth culture.

  • The 1950s saw a rise in youth culture, with the emergence of rock 'n' roll music and fashion styles such as mod attire.
  • Post-war Britain also experienced

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