Bongwater (novel)

Bongwater is a novel written by Michael Hornburg. It was first published in 1995 and is set in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. The novel explores themes of youth, counterculture, and the search for identity.

Plot Summary

The story of Bongwater revolves around the lives of several young adults living in Portland, Oregon. The protagonist, David, is a marijuana dealer who navigates the complexities of relationships, friendships, and the challenges of adulthood. The novel delves into David's interactions with his friends and love interests, painting a vivid picture of the 1990s counterculture scene.

Characters

• David - The main character, a marijuana dealer who is trying to find his place in the world.
• Mary - David's love interest, who has her own set of struggles and aspirations.
• Robert - David's best friend, who provides comic relief and a different perspective on life.
• Jennifer - Another significant character who influences David's journey.

Themes

Bongwater touches on several key themes:

• Youth and Rebellion - The novel captures the essence of youthful rebellion and the desire to break free from societal norms.
• Search for Identity - The characters are all on a quest to discover who they are and what they want from life.
• Counterculture - The book provides a snapshot of the counterculture movement in the 1990s, particularly in the Pacific Northwest.

Setting

The novel is set primarily in Portland, Oregon, a city known for its vibrant arts scene and progressive culture. The setting plays a crucial role in shaping the characters and their experiences.

Adaptations

Bongwater was adapted into a film in 1998, directed by Richard Sears. The film stars Luke Wilson, Alicia Witt, and Brittany Murphy. While the film follows the general plot of the novel, there are some differences in character development and storyline.

Reception

Upon its release, Bongwater received mixed reviews. Some critics praised its authentic portrayal of youth and counterculture, while others felt it lacked depth in character development. Despite the mixed reviews, the novel has maintained a cult following over the years.

See Also

• Counterculture of the 1990s
• Portland, Oregon
• Marijuana in popular culture