Money by Martin Amis
Set in the Eighties when Reagan was still president of the USA and Margaret Thatcher was Prime Minister in the UK, a time when money and greed were the fashion, Money is a great satire of the consumerist culture of this period. John Self is a director of TV commercials, attempting to get his first film produced. Self is self-confessed loser who is an out of shape, alcoholic womaniser. throughout the novel, he ends up in some hilarious situations, usually due to his excessive alcohol consumption, as he jets backwards and forwards between New York and his home in London. The sub title of the novel is “A Suicide Note”, the reason for which becomes clear as we follow Self through his high-rolling lifestyle to his inevitable downfall.
I really enjoyed the book, particularly the character of Self. Although politically incorrect at times, his adventures are sometimes cringe-worthy, but often laugh-out-loud funny. Amis really brings the characters to life as he describes Self’s chaotic pursuit for fame and fortune. When writing Money, he drew on his real-life experiences writing the screenplay to Saturn 3. This shows in his believable send-up off the film industry through characters such as Fielding Goodney, the producer for Self’s first movie.
If you’re easily shocked or offended, perhaps this isn’t the book for you. Personally, I can’t wait to get my hands on the next of Martin Amis’ books in the 1000 books everyone must read list.
Buy Money: A Suicide Note at Amazon.co.uk
Tags: Comedy, Martin Amis, Money
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