American Psycho | Bret Easton Ellis

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Bret Easton Ellis' "American Psycho" stirred a great deal of controversy upon its release in 1991 due to its graphic and violent content.

Feminist groups were particularly vocal in their opposition to the novel, as they believed it glorified violence against women.

As a result of its content, "American Psycho" is heavily restricted in many countries, and is considered harmful to minors. The book's sales have been significantly impacted by these restrictions.

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The descriptions provided in the text lack any emotional depth, rendering them as dry as the ingredients list on a laundry detergent box.

While it may seem tedious to wade through these monotonous passages, there is a deeper meaning hidden within them.

The protagonist, Bateman, is so fixated on the superficial aspects of life that he is unable to form genuine emotional connections with others.

The author uses this technique of endless, mundane descriptions to comment on contemporary society's obsession with consumerism.

It serves as a reminder that we often prioritize material possessions and superficial appearances over meaningful human relationships.

In Bret Easton Ellis' novel "American Psycho," the protagonist Patrick Bateman provides a detailed account of his daily routine, which includes strict dietary habits and a rigorous exercise regimen.

He meticulously describes his skincare routine, which involves using an ice pack to reduce puffiness, deep pore cleanser, water activated gel cleanser, honey almond body scrub, and exfoliating gel scrub.

He even applies a herb-mint facial mask for ten minutes. Bateman also emphasizes the importance of using after shave lotion with little or no alcohol to avoid drying out his face and appearing older.

His final step is to apply a moisturizing protective lotion. This passage reveals Bateman's obsessive attention to detail and his vanity, which is a recurring theme throughout the novel.

In "American Psycho," Bateman's desire to conform leads to the loss of his unique traits. His colleagues and business associates regularly confuse him with others, and only those who have a genuine connection with him can recall his true identity.

This theme highlights the impact of societal pressures on personal identity and the difficulty of maintaining a sense of self in a conformist culture.