GOLDFINGER was one of the first Flemings I read, so that probably profits from the golden light of nostalgia with me. But looking at it with a more distanced eye it's indeed a work with serious flaws. I'd argue it's perhaps losing another notch or two in comparison with the other originals, but there's no arguing it, GOLDFINGER is below par. Would be below par even if one completely forgets about the series and just looks at this single entry and its own merits.
That said GOLDFINGER has two strong scenes going for it that I always look forward to when opening it. No, actually three. The beginning at the Miami airport, the miniature anecdote about Bond's business with Mexico's upcoming drug trade - by today's standards almost a childishly naivè episode on all sides, Bond's own included - and his musing about life and death and his - our - role in the scheme, all that is an outstandingly fine and serious work by a master of escapist literature.
Next comes Bond's by now obligatory torture at the hands of Odd Job while he must fear being sawn in two. That is such a horrible and disgusting image that it manages to invoke repulsion and fear for the hero, even though we know Bond won't die there in the middle of the book. Fleming could have upped the impact by mentioning earlier victims of the 'Pressure Room', but it works fine as is.
Finally Bond's - downright suicidal - way to get rid of Odd Job and force the plane to abort the trip to Russia. A personal favourite of mine and a highlight of Bond's daredevil courage. Yes, it's absolute utter lunacy and would end any human being dead and forgotten at the bottom of the sea. But it's done with such ease and sleight of hand that while reading I just swallow it.
Edited by Dustin, 06 July 2012 - 08:47 PM.
