Through the Eye of the Needle: A Romance

I ordered this book because I enjoy reading both utopian and dystopian works, and I was not at all disappointed Through the Eye, however what intrigued me the most was the fact that an actual town or community was set up in (California where else?) based on this novel. I can understand reality imitating art, but this is really something else, so I had to read the book, since it must have moved so many people (moved them in the real sense!). I guess, given the time, I could actually see how people could fall in love with the ideals of the book, and it makes sense, in fiction, and perhaps, in our dreams. I think that man can write about utopian ideals makes them possible, at least in our minds they are possible, and Through the Eye does one of the best jobs of making you think it is more than just a dream, put a potential reality. In that sense the author does a great job.

I'm the first to say that the utopian vision of Howells's is good. In fact, I don't know how a rational person would say otherwise, it is one of the best descriptions of a utopian world that I have ever read. However, having said that, I am not sure if I would wish to live there. I like to think that I am rational, but I am flawed, and wonder if I would be part of the community. Perhaps all of us think this way, and yet wish to be perfect, and perhaps that is why we are drawn to utopian visions. Through the Eye of the Needle is one of the best descriptions of a perfect utopian America, and I can't find fault with it. If you like utopian or dystopian fiction, I think you will find this one of the best of its kind. I would also like to ask this question: would you like to live in such a place?

A very interesting and insightful book on life in a future or different earth, as seen from a 'bad' New York City of the future, (except the future takes place around now), and how that future NY is so different then another 'utopia' type place. I'm a city guy, but the books describes the perfect society so well, that even a city boy could long for it. I can understand how this book became such a great seller when it was written. I had this book assigned to me on a course about views of the future written in the past. I'm very glad to have read it, and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys Utopian scenarios.

I did like the book, but not the reason it was written. It will be considered Utopian, however personally I don't like this form of utopian, very christian, agrarian, etc. However the book makes a great case for the reasons behind this choice and is fascinating in explaining the 'past' of a 'bad America' (that did not happen). I am glad I read it, as I do enjoy all utopian and distopian novels and films. Some very good material, good enough that some people actually set up a community based on this novel. Cool!