The First Bad Man by Miranda July

Here is Cheryl, a tightly-wound, vulnerable woman who lives alone, with a perpetual lump in her throat. She is haunted by a baby boy she met when she was six, who sometimes recurs as other people's babies. Cheryl is also obsessed with Phillip, a philandering board member at the women's self-defense non-profit where she works. She believes they've been making love for many lifetimes, though they have yet to consummate in this one.

 

The First Bad Man by Miranda July is a quirky and introspective novel that explores themes of loneliness, identity, and the complexities of human relationships. The story centers around Cheryl Glickman, a middle-aged woman who lives a highly regimented and solitary life. Cheryl works for a self-defense nonprofit organization and has an obsession with a co-worker named Phillip, whom she believes is her soulmate, despite his lack of interest in her.

Cheryl's carefully controlled world is upended when she is forced to take in her bosses' 20-something daughter, Clee, a disruptive and bold young woman. Clee's arrival triggers a series of bizarre and unexpected events, including a strange and intense relationship between the two women. As they navigate their unconventional bond, Cheryl begins to confront her past traumas and unresolved emotions, leading to profound personal growth and transformation.

The novel is known for its dark humor, surreal elements, and unique narrative style. Miranda July's writing is both unsettling and tender, capturing the awkwardness and absurdity of life in a way that is both relatable and thought-provoking. The First Bad Man is a novel that challenges conventional ideas about love, sexuality, and self-acceptance, making it a distinctive and memorable read for those who enjoy offbeat and character-driven stories.

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Categories: Fiction

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