The El Cholo Feeling Passes

I read this book about ten years ago and have re-read it several times since. One of my favorite novels of all time. Stellar, unique, powerful, heartfelt writing. Very real and affecting. A great piece of American literature and on par with the best work of Richard Russo and Stuart O'Nan. I can also recommend Barton's "A House Divided," a great work of historical fiction that takes a unique look at the Civil Rights Era. A House Divided Bill Loehfelm Fresh Kills

I came across this novel by accident, picking up a tattered copy that some obvious backpacker had left at my home years ago, one I began on a chilled rainy day and stayed with through the weekend. It's a superb novel, particularly for any expatriated southern student, who experience the Seventies, and may be thinking of returning to somewhere back in the low country years later, as did I. My only regret is that I didn't find Barton until recently, as this, his first novel, was published in 1985, yet, remains topical to today's issues of war, race, sexism and the forever lost psyche of us all. The novel provides insights and harmony with many of the struggles I endured, and its wisdom stays with me even now, as I continue to puzzle over the outcome of Barton's story. Thus, the title is the enigma; The El Cholo Feeling Passes. Not, at least for me. Some books - rare ones - come out of the past to gain popularity years later. This is one that deserves just such a rediscovery.

What else do I need to say? This book takes you through this couple's relationship like you are living it yourself. I fell in love with her, just like he did, and she hurt me when she hurt him. I dearly wish Frederick Barton had written some more.

El Cholo Feeling Passes is a great book of love and misunderstanding. A young couple living together go through all phases of a relationship. Ultimatly they break up and go their seperate ways but the ending will grab you. If you're a fan of off-beat slice of life love stories, give this one a try