Civilization (novel)
 First edition | |
| Author | Paul Quarrington |
|---|---|
| Language | English |
| Genre | Novel |
| Publisher | Random House Canada |
Publication date | 1994 |
| Publication place | Canada |
| Media type | Print (Hardback) |
| Pages | 309 pp |
| Preceded by | Logan in Overtime |
| Followed by | The Spirit Cabinet |
Civilization, and Its Part in My Downfall is a novel by Canadian writer Paul Quarrington, published in 1994 by Random House Canada.[1]
Set during the early days of the film industry in Hollywood, the novel centres on Thom Moss, a onetime silent film star who is now in prison and is writing his personal account of his rise and fall.[2] Characters who play a role in his story include J.D.D. Jensen, a Western fiction author who first introduces him to the film industry; Caspar Willison, a D. W. Griffith-like film director who first makes Moss a star but ultimately destroys him by refusing to give him a role in the planned epic film Civilization; Jefferson Foote, Willison's one-armed screenwriter and Moss's best friend in the industry; and Thespa Doone, Moss's frequent costar and love interest.[3]
Although favourably reviewed by critics, the novel sold poorly, which pushed Quarrington to concentrate more actively on film and television writing.[4]
References
[edit]- ^ "A mythically proportioned Civilization". The Globe and Mail, September 24, 1994.
- ^ "Civilization doesn't let truth get in way of good story". Montreal Gazette, October 22, 1994.
- ^ "Quarrington offers rare and prized gifts; Civilization is challenging yet full of humor and fun". Ottawa Citizen, September 25, 1994.
- ^ "Out of the ravine". Quill & Quire, April 2008.