So this is the New York trilogy I've heard so much about. I'm at a loss for what to say, and not in the good way. I feel incredibly underwhelmed. 
 I can't even think of too many angry witticisms. It's very bland. High school students who were introduced to existentialism for the first time could produce better stuff. When the narrative switched back to an ordinary mystery story again, I became more interested, but the rest is just profoundly dull. 
 Language has meaning, you say? And you make references to other texts? The author searches for meaning? Do tell. You must be the next Ludwig-friggin'-Wittgenstein. 
 Ah well. Maybe I'm being a bit harsh. I'll try one of his later works and see what else he's done. For now, I'm not impressed.