The novel, and later the film adaptation starring Christian Bale, have become cultural touchstones, and merchandise featuring the character has become popular with fans The mood and needs of a Society are best expressed by the work of the Artists of the day, who speak for a people better than any politician or pundit. Madonna doesn’t just sing about freedom for women. She IS freedom for women. It is fascinating that after the turn of the Millennium, the world has found a renewed appreciation for artists such as Burt Bacharach and Santana, comfort food for the ears. One popular item is a t-shirt featuring the words “I have to return some videotapes,” a line that Bateman uses as an excuse to leave social situations and carry out his violent acts.

The novel is presented as a first-person account in which, with a devilish, hyperactive and repetitive style, we have first-class seats to the inner workings of the mind of a late-1980s Wall Street investment banker who is also, possibly, a serial killer. We get to see all his fixations, hatreds and obsessions: Armani suits, cocaine, Brooks Brothers shoes, fancy business cards, trendy restaurants, his daily beauty routine and the band Huey Lewis. His horrible crimes against men and women are described without sparing a single detail, which could be the reason why the novel became so famous (or infamous). This next one is a personal favorite of mine because Bateman shows off his music criticism skills, which won him so much favor when he applied them to Huey Lewis’“ Hip to Be Square.” In spite of Rap Artists’ protests to the contrary, music today, for the most part, has lost it’s soul. Actually, “Killed” is a better word, for the call to violence that is such an integral part of today’s music betrays what music was meant to be. From the first caveman who noticed the haunting chant of the wind over an entrance to his cave, all the way to the most contemporary interpretations of techno-pop by artists such as Tangerine Dream, music is meant to glorify life—to be a treat for the soul, an exclamation point, an expression of hope, a celebration. Not an outlet for hate. If you are going to lie about the state of your own head, how can anybody trust anything you have to say about anything important?He is also a psychopath who engages in brutal acts of violence, including murder, rape, and torture.

However, his image has not always been seen as a parody of ultra-capitalism. At times, Bateman has also been a role model, devoid of any irony. An example of this would be the gym junkies who are obsessed with achieving Bateman’s muscular and sinewy body, a difficult challenge that forced Bale himself to undergo an incredibly strict diet and a severe workout routine. At the beginning of 2020, a YouTuber named Will Tennyson underwent the same routine as Bale to achieve it. Even Men’s Health, the bible of ideal male bodies, warned its readers: “We don’t recommend that you try this yourself.” It was right then, in 2020, when Bateman conquered a new generation who, in full confinement, saw themselves reflected in him – without a hint of irony, in most cases. But first, a little history. Writer Bret Easton Ellis, author of the novel 'American Psycho.' WWD (Penske Media via Getty Images) An investment banker as a metaphor This line has become a catchphrase among fans of the book and film, and the t-shirt is a popular way for them to show their appreciation for the character. This change of mind return policy is in addition to, and does not affect your rights under the Australian Consumer Law including any rights you may have in respect of faulty items. To return faulty items see our Returning Faulty Items policy. You’re an Actor, fine. Go sleep with a Producer, and allow a trained professional to filet my Salmon.Throughout the novel, he frequently name-drops designer brands and boasts about his expensive wardrobe and accessories. Don’t bring up your inner demons to share with the others at the table. We really don’t care to know if you’re afraid of Virginia Woolf. Stay home and freak out. Buy a Chainsaw. There are even action figures available, with one particularly notable version featuring Bateman holding a chainsaw and wearing a raincoat, a nod to one of the most memorable scenes from the book. Bob Dylan expressed the need for self-evaluation during Vietnam. Cole Porter spun fantasies as the world faced depression. Elvis liberated the youth of America born during a time of War. The Beatles were perhaps the world’s first cultural happening, bringing together the children of the world across the boundaries of geography and culture. This change of mind return policy is in addition to, and does not affect your rights under the Australian Consumer Law including any rights you may have in respect of faulty items.