Life a User's Manual

The Preamble and the brief description of Perec's method was extremely confusing. I understand that the jigsaw puzzle and chessboard are prime analogies for the method of writing; both are complex and challenge the participant. Likewise, Perec's method challenges the reader to read the story differently. I enjoyed reading the excerpts mostly because it was unique. The descriptive manner of the piece added to its success. It was intresting to read mostly because it was as if someone was simply objective; this style of writing is rare in fiction. More often than not, some sort of emtion is outwardly revealed in the writing. In this piece, Perec creates a storyline and presents the setting and background through past events and annecdotes only. This is especially odd to read considering that most stories are told in the present tense and the story unfolds in a sequence of events.