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Hard-Luck Men in Hardscrabble Towns
In Richard Russo’s novels, the American dream feels like a cruel joke.
TL;DR
- Richard Russo's writing is influenced by his father, Jim, a highway worker and storyteller.
- Russo's novels often depict working-class characters in declining upstate New York towns.
- The themes explore the absurdity of an unjust world and the impact of economic decline on individuals.
- His 'classic trilogy' is set in the fictional town of North Bath and deals with obsolete workers' fractured lives.
- Russo's latest novel, 'Someone in Time,' features a wealthy protagonist returning to his hometown and getting involved in crime.
- The book 'Someone in Time' delves into themes of drug dealing, manslaughter, and police corruption.