One point that perhaps should be mentioned is that the novel has been condemned by several psychiatric professionals for its apparent glorification of mental illness. Yet, in my reading, I would argue that the sheer inventiveness and beauty of the prose alone renders the novel superior, adn that such a reading fails to take these qualities into account. However, it is possible that some readers may find their enjoyment tempered by similiar considerations. Nevertheless, I loved the book, and would highly recommend it!