THE FIG TREE

by Aubrey Menen ‧ RELEASE DATE: March 9, 1959

Here Menen's view of the world, always with an accent on the unexpected, is that scientists are up to no good and his proof is in the results of British Harry Wesley's experiments to step up food supplies with a beginning in figs (he was first dedicated to producing an oral contraceptive). In Italy his work introduces him to the rich American Joe Bellman and the Countess della Quercia who, with Harry, discover that the super-figs, because of their quickened reproduction, animate humans to an increased sexual potential, and the imbroglio their goatishness produces leads them straight to the Vatican -- with an upheaval among the Cardinals and in Harry's experiments as a finale. Along with a derogatory look at history's low moments, there is the argument that humanity is in ""danger of having lives twisted, souls and bodies destroyed by men who boast that they are above right and wrong.."" and at least this scientist points up the theme in carefully created conceits and tumults in the flesh and spirit. Amusing and acerb.

Pub Date: March 9, 1959

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Scribner

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: March 1, 1959

Categories: FICTION