In the Age of Loneliness by Sandip Badi

My Rating - 4 out of 5 stars

Publisher - Self-Published
Genre - Contemporary Fiction
Publishing year - 2023
Language - English
ASIN - B0C9MXD517
Pages - 196

Book Review - 

In the Age of Loneliness by Sandip Badi is a biting and darkly humorous exploration of the modern condition of loneliness and the extreme measures individuals take to find relief. 

Set in a world where everyone constantly pursues amusement and satisfaction, this novel introduces us to a young man who cannot derive genuine pleasure from life. Instead, he resorts to illicit means to escape the monotony of his job and grapple with his deep-seated bitterness towards the world.

The protagonist's daily life is monotonous and soul-crushing. His struggle to find meaning and joy amidst the chaos of modern existence is at the heart of this story. He is the symbol of disconnection and alienation, and the only pleasure he is looking for is sexual. He has relentless anger and bitterness towards almost everyone and everything he encounters. 

He presents a paradoxical character who can smile at you while discreetly plotting your doom. This duality adds depth to his character, and readers will recoil from his dark intentions. However, I haven't felt any sympathy for him throughout my read. Undoubtedly, he needs help, as he is one of the most jacked-up characters I read about. 

Sandip Badi did a good job, considering this is his debut book, in creating a character who reflects the alienation and anger festering beneath the surface of many individuals in contemporary society. The usage of dark humor is a standout; it is through this humor that the author addresses profound questions about individuality, human connection, and the pursuit of happiness. 

However, it is essential to note that this novel may only be for some people. Its dark theme and satirical tone can be unsettling for some readers, and the protagonist's actions and thoughts can be disturbing. Additionally, the narrative leaves some questions unanswered, as it leans more toward abstraction and introspection than a linear plot-driven story.

This story invites readers to contemplate the modern condition of isolation and mental health stigma. If you don't mind the gore, coarse language, and sexual scenes, this is a read for you. It is a stark reminder that loneliness can lead to unforeseen and often shadowy paths. I wish the story also explored the mental health angle briefly. But overall, I recommend this witty and unconventional story.

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