In the mid-1960s, the publication of Pynchon's V and The Crying of Lot 49 introduced a brilliant new voice to American literature. Gravity's Rainbow, his convoluted, allusive novel about a metaphysical quest, published in 1973, further confirmed Pynchon's reputation as one of the greatest writers of the century.
It's interesting to look back at the literature that withstands the test of time. We've been looking back over some of the titles that will turn fifty this year. Here are ten memorable books from 1973 and some notes on their significance.