The One Inside
Back of the Book
This searing, extraordinarily evocative narrative opens with a man in his house at dawn, surrounded by aspens, coyotes cackling in the distance as he quietly navigates the distance between present and past. More and more, memory is overtaking him: in his mind he sees himself in a movie-set trailer, his young face staring back at him in a mirror surrounded by light bulbs. In his dreams and in visions he sees his late father—sometimes in miniature, sometimes flying planes, sometimes at war. By turns, he sees the bygone America of his childhood: the farmland and the feedlots, the railyards and the diners—and, most hauntingly, his father's young girlfriend, with whom he also became involved, setting into motion a tragedy that has stayed with him. His complex interiority is filtered through views of mountains and deserts as he drives across the country, propelled by jazz, benzedrine, rock and roll, and a restlessness born out of exile. The rhythms of theater, the language of poetry, and a flinty humor combine in this stunning meditation on the nature of experience, at once celebratory, surreal, poignant, and unforgettable.
Why You Should Read It
The One Inside is a compelling exploration of memory, identity, and the intricate interplay between reality and imagination. Shepard, a masterful storyteller, weaves a narrative that blurs the boundaries of autobiography and fiction, inviting readers into a contemplative and atmospheric journey. The novel's strength lies in Shepard's poetic prose and his ability to evoke a sense of haunting nostalgia. Through the lens of the protagonist's introspection, Shepard delves into the complexities of the human psyche, creating a narrative that is both introspective and mysterious. The One Inside is a testament to Shepard's literary prowess, offering readers a unique and thought-provoking experience that lingers in the mind long after the last page is turned. If you appreciate introspective narratives that navigate the terrain of memory and self-discovery, Shepard's novel is a compelling and immersive choice.
Memorable Passage
I hate endings. Just detest them. Beginnings are definitely the most exciting, middles are perplexing and endings are a disaster. … The temptation towards resolution, towards wrapping up the package, seems to me a terrible trap. Why not be more honest with the moment? The most authentic endings are the ones which are already revolving towards another beginning. That’s genius.
About the Author
Sam Shepard (1943–2017) was an iconic American playwright, actor, and director whose profound impact on the landscape of American theater and cinema has solidified his status as a cultural luminary. Born Samuel Shepard Rogers III, Shepard's prolific career spanned several decades, during which he penned over 40 plays, earning him the Pulitzer Prize for Drama for "Buried Child." Renowned for his exploration of the complexities of familial relationships, American mythology, and the shifting landscapes of the West, Shepard's works, including "True West" and "Fool for Love," reflect a unique blend of existentialism, dark humor, and poetic language. In addition to his contributions to theater, Shepard was a versatile actor, appearing in numerous films such as "The Right Stuff" and "Paris, Texas." Shepard is worth knowing not only for his impactful writing but also for his transformative influence on the American dramatic tradition, his multidisciplinary artistic pursuits, and his ability to capture the essence of the American experience with unparalleled authenticity.
Further Reading & Watching
“‘The One Inside’ Presents Sam Shepard in a Minor Key” by Michiko Tatutani, The New York Times "
”My Buddy” by Patti Smith, The New Yorker
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