Looking Backward (Signet Classics)

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It's a hit!

A great way to look at the late 19th century's vision of the future, as in see what they were hoping would change about their daily lives.

 

 

by Facebook User

No, it's a flop!

As much as Bellamy hated to be associated with socialism, the book in many ways smacks of the baser parts of the communist manifesto. Some parts, ... (show more)

As much as Bellamy hated to be associated with socialism, the book in many ways smacks of the baser parts of the communist manifesto. Some parts, however, are complete polar opposites. Parts of the book are PAINFULLY SLOW AND DRAWN OUT. I don't think I can really describe the pain of reading them, but I might equate it to reading certain parts of the Iliad while sitting on broken glass naked. It's not much for plot really, but for social commentary and forward vision, there's a reason it's one of the most widely read utopian/revisionist novels of all time. Unfortunately in spite of this praise, the ideals of the book still have a few gaping holes. Definitely worth a read, in spite of its similarities with watching an old Twilight Zone episode which is narrated by Ben Stein. (show less)

 

 

by Anonymous User

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  Looking Backward provided an interesting read in 2009. Bellamy's sweeping vision of practical socialism captivates the optimist lurking in all of us. Sadly, he didn't get it right. His flawed hope in the innate goodness of man simply reinforces human depravity. Although Bellamy turned his back on Christian religion, his utopia reflects the Judaeo-Christian hope of Messianic utopia.

  When I put the book down, a strange flood of weary despair washed over me. I longed to agree with the un... (show more)

  Looking Backward provided an interesting read in 2009. Bellamy's sweeping vision of practical socialism captivates the optimist lurking in all of us. Sadly, he didn't get it right. His flawed hope in the innate goodness of man simply reinforces human depravity. Although Bellamy turned his back on Christian religion, his utopia reflects the Judaeo-Christian hope of Messianic utopia.

  When I put the book down, a strange flood of weary despair washed over me. I longed to agree with the undying optimism, but then I looked out my window and realized that our world is at least as bad as the 19th century. His belief that the world could swiftly improve dashed to pieces on the violent 20th century. (show less)

   

   

  by Facebook User on May 05, 2009 at 07:20AM

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  I thought that since I was reading this for school I would hate it but I really enjoyed it. Man wakes up in completely socialist society... the Trekkie in me was going "YAH!!!"

   

   

  by Facebook User on Sep 01, 2007 at 03:29AM

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