"The Iron Dream", Norman Spinrad
This post is a continuation of a discussion happening here.
Title: The Iron Dream
Author: Norman Spinrad
About?: (from the back cover) THE IRON DREAM brings us the science fiction novel Hitler would have written if he had emigrated to the US in 1919 and become a hack sci-fi writer - LORD OF THE SWASTIKA!
In a post nuclear holocaust era, we follow the rise to power of Feric Jaggar from the ignominious exile amongst mutants and mongrels to absolute rule in the Fatherland of Truemen, having fought his way to power over the corrupt government.
Obsessed with tight black leather and huge crowds, he vows to destroy all mutant scum and defeat the cold, heartless superpower of Zind led by the evil mind-controlling Dominators.
In Spinrad's acid etched satire the parallels between space opera, sword and sorcery and fascist wish-fulfilment are made explicit as you find yourself rooting for Jaggar, whilst realising his rise has sinister parallels with that of Hitler and the Nazi party.
Amazon Reviews.
Discussion points:
* Does intentionally writing something poorly make it good?
* Tasteless wank or pointed satire?
* Feelings about the concept?
I have to admit I couldn't bring myself to finish reading this book. Mostly I found it painful to read on account of the dreadful pulp themes and style, but I also though it very transparent and unsubtle. There is the initial repulsion at the concept as well. If anyone has read it I would be very interested to know what you think.
Title: The Iron Dream
Author: Norman Spinrad
About?: (from the back cover) THE IRON DREAM brings us the science fiction novel Hitler would have written if he had emigrated to the US in 1919 and become a hack sci-fi writer - LORD OF THE SWASTIKA!
In a post nuclear holocaust era, we follow the rise to power of Feric Jaggar from the ignominious exile amongst mutants and mongrels to absolute rule in the Fatherland of Truemen, having fought his way to power over the corrupt government.
Obsessed with tight black leather and huge crowds, he vows to destroy all mutant scum and defeat the cold, heartless superpower of Zind led by the evil mind-controlling Dominators.
In Spinrad's acid etched satire the parallels between space opera, sword and sorcery and fascist wish-fulfilment are made explicit as you find yourself rooting for Jaggar, whilst realising his rise has sinister parallels with that of Hitler and the Nazi party.
Amazon Reviews.
Discussion points:
* Does intentionally writing something poorly make it good?
* Tasteless wank or pointed satire?
* Feelings about the concept?
I have to admit I couldn't bring myself to finish reading this book. Mostly I found it painful to read on account of the dreadful pulp themes and style, but I also though it very transparent and unsubtle. There is the initial repulsion at the concept as well. If anyone has read it I would be very interested to know what you think.