This was a fascinating book to read. I had never read a book told through words of a psychopathic serial killer. The killer's name is Patrick Bateman, a wealthy businessman who graduated from Harvard and now works for his father's company. On first appearance, Bateman seems to be a well educated, successful businessman who is charming and humorous amongst women and his co-workers.
This novel is a psychological thriller that is told by serial killer and businessman, Patrick Bateman. The novel is simply Bateman describing his day to day life. He goes to expensive bars, and nightclubs, comments on expensive clothing, makes dinner reservations with his wealthy business partners and brutally murders his victims. What is most disturbing is that no matter what he describes, the reader percieves no true emotion in his voice other than the occasional disgust and greed. I believe that Bateman represents American capitalism since his only interest is to be on top and kill any competition that's holdin him back. Gradually Bateman's murders become more frequent and more brutal in nature. He even goes so far as to pull out the insides of his victims from their mouths while they are still alive. the murders consist of mutilation, rape, torture and cannibalism. However, as the story progresses, Bateman's state of mind becomes increasingly unstable. He has visions that seem to be real. The reader begins to question whether Bateman is actually committing these murders or whether they are some twisted fantasy that is going out of control.
What really disturbs me about the novel is Bateman's indifference in describing the mutilations and other atrocities he commits. Even as Bateman's mask of sanity slips away, he still speaks in a calm and very descriptive manner. Its clear that without emotions, man is unable to control his morality. Bateman's thirst for blood increases and he is unable to control his obsession with murder. There is no connection between the victims.
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