To tell the absolute truth, I’ve always been slightly embarrassed by Walter’s company. Whenever I’m with him, I feel the stretch of the old tightrope, the necessity of living up to the friendship of friendships, of cultivating an intimacy beyond words. The fact is that we have little to say to each other. There is only this thick sympathetic silence between us. We are comrades, true, but somewhat embarrassed comrades. It is probably my fault. For years now I have had no friends. I spend my entire time working, making money, going to movies and seeking the company of women.
-The Moviegoer by Walker Percy
This discussion currently has 3 responses.
June 8, 2009
This one is new to me. Thanks.
June 8, 2009
Christian, I couldn't recommend it any more. It's a very quick read and a fabulous, often overlooked American existentialist classic.
June 9, 2009
It's on my list now.