I absolutely loved this story collection! It was one of the strangest rides I've been on while reading literary fiction. There were certainly times where I wondered what exactly I was reading, but those times were evenly balanced with beautiful prose that really resonated. Some really haunting lines and images in here, considering the author's ultimate demise.

I'd 100% recommend this read! ( )

Some lovely passages and imagery, but overall I ended up being underwhelmed and once again confused by the prize giving industry. ( )

I've read best-sellers and wondered, Why did this title sell so well? Reading The Largesse of the Sea Maiden I had no such question. Johnson spins stories out of the ordinary and shows that life's most matter of fact is really laced with the extraordinary. If you only pay attention.

The collection of stories leaves me envious of the skill of the writer. But it never seemed that the writer overworked or asked me to as the off-beat but believable narratives unspooled. The sideways and looping threads never tangled or left me lost. Each felt like a long and mostly focused stream of consciousness record from men I've never met, and probably wouldn't like if I did. Nevertheless, I kept company with them, because each was rendered with attention, honesty, and a dash of wonder. ( )

Loved it. Classic Denis Johnson. ( )

The Largesse of the Sea Maiden is a collection of short stories that explore the complexities of the human experience. Johnson's evocative and immersive writing pulls readers into each story with poetic prose and vivid sensory details, tackling dark themes such as addiction, mortality, and violence while offering moments of love, hope, and redemption. Using multiple perspectives and fragmented narrative structure, Johnson creates nuanced and emotionally connected characters grappling with their flaws and mistakes. Despite the darkness, the stories ultimately offer hope, reminding readers that growth and change are always possible. Johnson's command over language and use of vivid imagery create an indelible impression and imbue the book with both intellectual and emotional weight. The writing is powerful, leaving a lasting impact and offering a compelling reading experience. ( )