Essential Warning Before Reading ‘American Psycho’

As Luca Guadagnino gears up to unveil his new adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis’ controversial novel American Psycho, prospective viewers might consider familiarizing themselves with the original text, especially to explore Austin Butler’s interpretation of the character Patrick Bateman. However, be forewarned: this novel delves into the darkest recesses of the human psyche and is not for the sensitive reader.

Having immersed myself in the pages of this novel and viewed Mary Harron’s film multiple times, I’ve also caught the stage musical during its brief Broadway tenure six times. My admiration for American Psycho runs so deep that I have even etched a tattoo in its honor. Yet, it’s important to acknowledge that the journey through the novel is a daunting endeavor, often difficult to digest. Navigating the mind of Patrick Bateman can feel suffocatingly claustrophobic at times.

The Underlying Themes of the Novel

Bret Easton Ellis crafted this poignant work for several reasons. Central to its creation was Ellis’s own disenchantment with New York City, but he also sought to critique the “yuppie”culture of the 1980s while grappling with his personal struggles regarding identity. At the time of writing, Ellis was not openly expressing his sexuality, and this internal conflict significantly shapes the character of Patrick Bateman.

Beyond Ellis’ personal struggles, the novel is imbued with a much darker essence compared to other adaptations. A particularly disturbing subplot involves Bateman capturing a rat, starving it, and ultimately utilizing the creature in his violent escapades. Such grotesque imagery can be both challenging and unsettling for readers, contributing to the lengthy period it took me to finish.

Plunging into Bateman’s psyche is a unique experience, one that radically differs from the narrative offered in the film and musical adaptations, including Guadagnino’s upcoming version, scripted by Scott Z. Burns. The adaptations allow audiences to observe Bateman’s actions from an external perspective, rather than being trapped within his twisted thoughts.

A Caution for Potential Readers

Though I hold a deep affection for this piece of literature – with the film and musical holding a special place in my heart – it’s critical to approach the novel with caution. The appeal lies in its graphic depictions and Bateman’s reality, which starkly contrasts the entertainment found in adaptations. The novel compels the reader to confront Bateman’s thoughts directly, and there’s little chance for detachment.

The narrative is not designed to present a sympathetic view of a monstrous figure but rather showcases a man empowered by societal privileges that allow him to exploit those deemed weaker. Patrick Bateman embodies this unsettling dynamic, forcing readers to grapple with the uncomfortable realities of privilege and power.

If you possess the fortitude to endure the chaos of Patrick Bateman’s deranged mind, diving into American Psycho can be richly rewarding. Those intrigued by the intricate commentaries interwoven within the tale may find it particularly enlightening. However, it’s essential to enter with the understanding that the novel presents a far more graphic and harrowing experience than any lighter killings portrayed in the adaptations. For someone who deeply appreciates the work, its impact is undeniably profound.

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