(goes without saying, no spoilers)
So, I'm a sucker for depressing and sad media because its so cathartic and somewhat relatable and comforting. I've watched depressing movies and games but boy oh boy i just read "A Little Life" by Hanya Yanagihara and its the most gut wrenching, soul shattering piece of media ive ever laid my eyes upon.
So I'm on the hunt (once again) for depressing books. no need to hold back. just give me the most soul shattering thing you've ever read.
It would be good if its not necessarily medieval or history (yes im talking about Song Of Achilles because i just dont get THAT engaged with history and medieval stuff) but anything is fine as long as it will throw me down to the floor and kick me repeatedly.
Also i would greatly appreciate if you would include "why you recommended me this book" but eh whatever just give some damn names
thanks!!! ^^
edit: and i dont mind if its disturbing. bonus points if it is actually.
by TakeAPotat0
17 Comments
This is a niche recommendation and undeniably not for everybody, but *Infinite Jest* by David Foster Wallace is depressing beyond belief.
As for something that’s far more accessible to the average reader, *Player Piano* and *Mother Night* both by Kurt Vonnegut. Just truly dismal portrayals of humanity presented in ways that are far too realistic to be anything but profoundly depressing and mildly to severely anger-inducing.
If this is a man, Primo Levi
This book doesnt need an explanation why you should read it.
Probably not the level you’re looking for, but “They Both Die At The End”. >!The ending is right there. It’s in the title. You know it’s going to happen. The plot makes it very obvious.!<
Still cried.
The Sorrows of Young Werther by Goethe
Ones company is the first one to come to mind. I gravitate towards a lot of first person mentally ill female antagonist type books and this one is no exception. I hate spoilers of any kind so I don’t want so say a ton but it’s incredibly dark, the mc is struggling with severe mental illness in an extremely unhealthy way and there is little if any room for redemption. Four stars from me !! lol
A Thousand Splendid Suns absolutely wrecked me.
Shuggie Bain ripped my heart out.
The Road by Cormac McCarthy.
I have no words after this one.
When Breath Becomes Air – beautifully written and totally heartbreaking
Pachinko. That one is gut punch after gut punch.
Requiem for a Dream. Unflinching and disturbing novel about heroin addiction.
Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
Bastard Out of Carolina
A Fine Balance
Jude the Obscure
The Bluest Eye
Spilled Milk by K L Randis (SA warning)
Beloved by Toni Morrison
A Little Life
Notes From The Underground
A Farewell to Arms