3 Essays on Imagereality

by Scott Navicky

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As was the case with Navicky's previous novel, Humboldt, 3Essays on Imagereality is like nothing I've read before. When I started the book, I had an initial fear that I might not be smart enough for this book. That happened with Humboldt, too (they both give your brain a workout), but I ended up feeling a lot more grounded with this one.

Once again, I love how Navicky plays with words. It makes the act of reading truly delightful. His writing is super animated and has so much character, my mind read in a variety of voices. And once again, I found myself cringing and laughing at the same time. The thing is, yes, Navicky has his own unique, incredibly distinct style, but you cannot dismiss it as "okay, this is just his shtick." 3Essays in Imagereality is a completely different work with its own personality, and it's a completely different reading experience.

I really don't want to say too much about the format and structure because I felt like discovering it was a big part of the fun of reading this book. I will say there are layers upon layers here. Ghost reminds us that even if we pride ourselves on being tolerant (as he does), our thoughts aren't pristine, and are often downright problematic. My brain was swirling with thoughts about the ways we perceive - the ways I perceive - art, photography, entertainment, time, moments, imagery, memory, and social media.

Sometimes Ghost's musings get tedious, but ha! I can relate! This was a fascinating look into the mind of a fellow human being who thinks too much (not necessarily a bad thing) and makes seemingly (but very much not) random connections in everything he sees.

Definitely grab this book if you're in the mood for something off-the-wall and intelligent.