Though the least accessible memoir I have ever read, Aiken's epic-length essay pulls me back every so often as if to say, "Oh, come on. You can do it. Finish the book this time." And I try. And I fail. But one of these days... (Which is what I keep saying about Moby Dick and Don Quixote.)
The book's obtuse nature aside, though, it is full of prose that is by turns mysterious and beautiful, surreal and stark, tender and brutal. Like many of Aiken's stories, you are entering a world you won't soon forget, the events compelling, even more so if you study about Aiken's life before tackling Ushant. In the end, I believe it was very brave of Aiken to bare his life to the world- even if it's sometimes done by way of riddles, ciphers and symbolism. That's one of the reasons this book is so fascinating and rewarding.
To get a fuller picture of Aiken's style and talent, check out the novel Blue Voyage. Similar themes and style, but more straightforward... well, most of the time... ( )