http://www.powells.com/biblio/7-9780670034598-2 - Sixty-something year old Paul Rayment survives a bicycle accident, but must have his leg amputated. Unable to adequately care for himself, he is assigned a Croatian day nurse named Marijana with whom he falls in love. Paul professes his love for Marijana and his desire to financially support the education of her children, causing discord in Marijana's marriage. Suddenly Elizabeth Costello (the fictional Australian author who is the subject of Coetzee's ealier novel) arrives on the scene. Costello is often read as Coetzee's alter ego, and I found her presence in the book distracting and seemingly unnecessary. The fundamental story of Slow Man is quite interesting - the psychological effects of a debilatating accident on an independent person, as well as the blurred lines between love and dependence. This is all portrayed wonderfully through Paul's character. But, the irritation caused by Costello's character prevented me from truly enjoying this book (though perhaps she could be read as the super-ego to Paul's id - a true reflection of the irritation that one feels when their moral judgment conflicts with their desires). I would recommend this to someone who appreciates Coetzee's writing style, but not necessarily for the overall experience.
(* - listed in 1001 Books You Must Read Before You Die)
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