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A review by kolymaarasto
The Proof by César Aira

dark mysterious reflective fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

1.25

I didn't like it. It still feels like the book achieved what the author set out to do. If this was a fantasy book, it would be shelved under grim dark. The characters are immensely unlikable and infuriating, the whole approach nihilistic.

The first two thirds of the story consist of pointless conversation, or rather characters evading a true conversation, and sexual harassment interspersed with fat-shaming and name-calling. In the last third, this culminates in robbery, arson and murder - and the "proof" that humanity is inherently evil and there is no innocence. The thoughts about transformation and the origin of morals within the last three pages fell flat for me.