Bright Lights, Big City

Jay McInerney

Aug 2011 · Sold by Vintage

About this ebook

With the publication of Bright Lights, Big City in 1984, Jay McInerney became a literary sensation, heralded as the voice of a generation. The novel follows a young man, living in Manhattan as if he owned it, through nightclubs, fashion shows, editorial offices, and loft parties as he attempts to outstrip mortality and the recurring approach of dawn. With nothing but goodwill, controlled substances, and wit to sustain him in this anti-quest, he runs until he reaches his reckoning point, where he is forced to acknowledge loss and, possibly, to rediscover his better instincts. This remarkable novel of youth and New York remains one of the most beloved, imitated, and iconic novels in America.

Ratings and reviews

What can I say. I am a bookworm, and this is one of my favourite books ever. Its imagery brings you in unexplored worlds. I am amazed at how he wrote a wonderful book using both 2nd person and present tense, which are tricky for writers. I'll say it's a classic peculiar book. I would reread it gladly.

The 2nd person angle works well. For anyone living in Manhattan today, it's fascinating to read what they city was and how different life in the fast lane looked. Two thumbs up if you're looking for something quick and enjoyable. And for the record, the scene with his mother fit in perfectly...

I do enjoy a book in second person as well as Jays other novels. It is a quick but good read

About the author

Jay McInerney is the author of eight novels, a collection of short stories and three collections of essays on wine. He lives in New York City and Bridgehampton, New York.