I re-read the four novels some time back (Ham on Rye, Factotum, Post Office and Women) and they were still effective. My reaction to them was a bit different from when I was in my 20s, of course (I'm now 50), and also knowing what I know about his actual life. The vastly exaggerated womanizing came across as sad and desperate. He was driven and gifted and downplayed both of these things to create an impression of a life idled away. I now realize it was an affectation.

I didn't realize it at the time, but Women really ended on a "And they lived happily ever after" vibe. At the end of the day, the books boil down to a search for love and understanding.

Of course, that's just my impression and you may disagree. For sure the guy was a hell of a writer. His ability to create a certain atmosphere in only a few sentences was without peer.

Thanks for the summary - I think I'll give him another go.