Melissa Good's 'The Grocery List' - A Critical Perspective

by: ROBERT S. KENNEY II

The literary world is agog at the recent re-release of Melissa Good's early opus 'The Grocery List'. This fascinating exploration of the inner workings of a creative genius gives ample evidence of the motivation which powers this dynamic writer.

The playful shift in energy with which it segues into foreshadowing of the later climactic interactions is interupted when the cleverly constructed subplot bursts forth, shifting from an unaffected wholesomeness through the scintillating juxtaposition of chilling and searing narrative, ending the sequence with a hint of the outre.

The unexpected transition back to the earlier motivational tone sets up the stunning alliterative impact of the climactic peak of the tome, as the entry of one of literature's most powerful supporting characters is felt in this whirlwind passage. Although the original casting of Renee O'Connor in the role proved impossible due to contract difficulties, the arrival of a then unknown Canadian proved to be one of the great partnerships of the genre.

The denoument, a high energy burst of possibilities which presaged the writer's later triumphs of literary alpinism, is an unforgettable milestone. This reviewer must also recommend, for the true connoisseur, the controversial director's cut, which includes even richer development of the fundamental theme and a discursive foray into multicultural implications missing from the standard edition.

A must read. Given four stars by the Cordon Jaune, with rumours rampant about the possibility of a film adaptation setting the media world alight with anticipation.

Tomorrow: Permanent Press, the tropical milieu as an influence on the artist. Melissa Good's 'Dry Cleaning Receipt'.

Until then, this is your humble reviewer, Mirpupz Nidanupdaet, bidding you good morning.

For further insight ....

A prologomena to all future 'Melissa Good' studies

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