TagAlms for Oblivion

Alms for Oblivion by Simon Raven is a novel that explores the lives and relationships of a group of Oxford graduates in the 1950s. The story centers around Patrick Standish, a charismatic and manipulative figure who exerts his influence over his friends and acquaintances. The novel touches on themes of class, power, sexuality, and morality, with characters engaging in various forms of debauchery and betrayal. Despite its dark content, the book is written with a sharp wit and satirical tone that keeps the reader engaged. Ultimately, Alms for Oblivion offers a bleak but compelling portrait of a privileged and decadent society on the brink of collapse.

Pleasure vs. Happiness

In Fiction, Literary Fiction

P

Pleasure can be supported by an illusion; but happiness rests upon truth.
Simon Raven – Alms for Oblivion

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Forgiving Criminals

In Fiction, Literary Fiction

F

Society often forgives the criminal; it never forgives the dreamer.
Simon Raven – Alms for Oblivion

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Attractiveness Bias

In Fiction, Literary Fiction

A

The only way to behave to a woman is to make love to her if she is pretty and to someone else if she is plain.
Simon Raven – Alms for Oblivion

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Hope and Despair

In Fiction, Literary Fiction

H

We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars.
Simon Raven – Alms for Oblivion

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Cynicism

In Fiction, Literary Fiction

C

The cynic is one who never sees a good quality in a man and never fails to see a bad one.
Simon Raven – Alms for Oblivion

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Disregarding Threats

In Fiction, Literary Fiction

D

He who does not fear death cares naught for threats.
Simon Raven – Alms for Oblivion

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Gentility

In Fiction, Literary Fiction

G

A gentleman is one who puts more into the world than he takes out.
Simon Raven – Alms for Oblivion

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Education’s Value

In Fiction, Literary Fiction

E

Education is an admirable thing, but it is well to remember from time to time that nothing worth knowing can be taught.
Simon Raven – Alms for Oblivion

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Advice Utilization

In Fiction, Literary Fiction

A

The only thing to do with good advice is to pass it on. It is never of any use to oneself.
Simon Raven – Alms for Oblivion

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