Finished The Stranger by Albert Camus. The Stranger is based in Algiers and focuses on Mersault, a man with tendencies that could at best be described as apathetic and at worst as nihilistic, and a limited understanding of the unspoken rules which govern interpersonal relationships. He's a creature of the senses, hedonistic, nothing appears to matter much to Mersault except sun, sea, cigarettes, sex, wine and food. The plot focuses on a thoughtless killing of an Arab by Mersault, and the subsequent court case - which effectively ignores the murder, and sees him convicted on the basis of his apathy and atheism. In prison, Mersault turns away from his earlier apathy, and develops an desire for life and freedom. With this, Camus seems to be suggesting that although the universe is indifferent, often hostile, to the individual, striving in the face of this indifference, rather than surrendering to apathy, offers a better way to live.
It's a short read, insightful, engaging and the plot is easy to follow, though the underlining thesis will take some grappling with. Recommended!
