“The Man in the High Castle” by Philip K. Dick

“The Man in the High Castle” by Philip K. Dick

On Wednesday 20th July 2011 we gathered at The Poets’ Corner pub for more cultural discourse.  The pub was surrounded by Morris Dancers.  The jingle jangle of their bells making for a pleasing accompaniment to our first discussion about “The Man in the High Castle” by Philip K. Dick.

This was my choice.  Here’s my review.  Suffice it to say I really enjoyed this book and awarded it a rock solid 8/10.

Jason hadn’t finished it but was similarly enthused and described how he had talked about it incessantly on the way to a gig Up North.  8/10

Tristan described himself as a grizzled Science Fiction veteran who had never previously read any Philip K. Dick (PKD).  Ultimately, despite liking the premise, he was unimpressed, and labelled the book “thin gruel”. 5/10

Keith’s best friend is a confirmed PKD fanatic and - despite a few reservations - he liked it and gave it 7/10.

Robin enjoyed it but also described it as “tosh” and “turgid”.  On the night he gave it 5/10 but, after some reflection, he upped his score to 6/10.

Don thoroughly enjoyed the previous reviews and then read us his part typed/part hand written stream-of-consciousness review which described many things but not the contents of the book. 4/10.

Nick really liked it.  The lack of conclusion was “refreshing” and words like clever fascinating, and good choice were bandied about.  Nick particularly liked the way the book focussed on ordinary people and major events were minor footnotes to their tales. 8.5/10.

Our average score was 6.6 out of 10.

We then discussed “Hot Sauce Committee Part Two” by Beastie Boys.  Robin wished they would stop shouting; Nick prefers “Ill Communication”; Keith rapped a favourable review; and I loved it and indeed them - possibly my favourite group of all time.