Best Pynchon novel to start with?

Definitely 'The Crying of Lot 49'. This book has a somewhat straightforward narrative at its core, but as you read, you'll discover Pynchon's layers of meaning. It has elements of a detective story but quickly veers into strange and thought - provoking territory. It's a good introduction to his style of writing which often involves multiple sub - plots, strange characters, and a deep exploration of the human condition in a rather off - kilter world. And it won't take you as long to finish as some of his other hefty tomes, so it's a great starting point.

I think 'The Crying of Lot 49' could be considered the best. It's a relatively shorter work compared to some of his others but packs a punch. It has an engaging mystery at its core, with the protagonist trying to make sense of a strange post - World War II California landscape filled with odd characters and possible conspiracies. It's a great introduction to Pynchon's unique style.

Another option is 'Slow Learner', which is a collection of Pynchon's early stories. It can be a great way to ease into his writing. You can see how his style developed over time and get a sense of his recurring themes in a more accessible format before diving into one of his full - length novels.

For someone into historical fiction, 'Mason & Dixon' is an excellent start. It gives a detailed look at the historical context of the 18th - century American colonies. But it's not just a dry historical account. Pynchon fills it with his own idiosyncratic characters and plot twists. You'll find his exploration of the relationship between the two surveyors, as well as the political and social undercurrents of the time, all wrapped up in his inimitable writing style.

In my opinion, 'Gravity's Rainbow' is one of the best. It's a complex and mind - bending work that delves deep into themes like war, technology, and human nature. The narrative is filled with rich symbolism and a large cast of characters, and Pynchon's writing style in this novel is both challenging and rewarding, making it a classic among his works.

Well, it's subjective, but many readers think 'V.' is a standout. It has a unique narrative and explores interesting social and political issues.

I'd recommend 'V.' It's considered one of his early and accessible works that gives you a taste of his unique style and themes.

Well, 'Mason & Dixon' is among the best Pynchon novels. It takes a historical event, the surveying of the Mason - Dixon line, and turns it into a wild, imaginative exploration of different ideas, cultures, and the human condition. It's full of Pynchon's signature digressions and complex language that make it a challenging but rewarding read.

I would recommend 'The Crying of Lot 49' as a great first Pynchon novel. It's relatively short compared to some of his other works, which can be a bit daunting in length. It gives you a taste of Pynchon's unique style, full of paranoia, post - modernist ideas, and complex symbolism, but in a more accessible package.

Many consider 'Gravity's Rainbow' to be his best. It's a complex and sprawling work that combines historical events, paranoia, and an intricate web of characters. It delves deep into the end of World War II and the post - war era, exploring themes of power, technology, and the human condition. Its narrative is highly experimental and filled with Pynchon's unique style of humor and social commentary.