by Patrick White (1970)
Hurtle Duffield, a painter, coldly dissects the weaknesses of any and all who enter his circle. His sister's deformity, a grocer's moonlight indiscretion, the passionate illusions of the women who love him—all are used as fodder for his art. It is only when Hurtle meets an egocentric adolescent whom he sees as his spiritual child does he experience a deeper, more treacherous emotion in this tour de force of sexual and psychological menace that sheds brutally honest light on the creative experience.
Iris Murdoch
"One of Iris Murdoch’s more successful novels, A Fairly Honourable Defeat combines elements of realism and allegory to create a commentary on the moral shortcomings of the individual and society. The book opens as Hilda and Rupert Foster, an ostensibly happily-married couple, anticipate their forthcoming twentieth anniversary party." ([Source][1]) [1]:
Thomas Mann
Death in Venice is a celebrated work by Thomas Mann (Nobel Laureate), recognized for masterclass storytelling and lasting literary resonance.
John Barth
Lost in the Funhouse by John Barth is an acclaimed literary masterpiece celebrating major critical honors and timeless storytelling.
Franz Kafka
Hochzeitsvorbereitungen auf dem Lande is a celebrated work by Franz Kafka (Literary Titan), recognized for masterclass storytelling and lasting literary resonance.