title: Both Sides Now
author: Dizon, John Reinhard
description: Both Sides Now is a witty, provocative romantic comedy providing an incisive view into the world of professional wrestling set against the backdrop of 1960’s New York City. Dr. Lucien Triskellion, arriving from West Germany to accept a position at New York University, is solicited by International Wrestling Association manager Jim Dandy. He learns of Lucien’s amateur prowess and phenomenal powerlifting ability and matches his NYU salary for his moonlighting services. Lucien comes into increasing conflict in trying to balance his budding romance with Anneliese Krieger, his teaching career at NYU, and his alternative lifestyle as an IWA star. His daily interaction with students reconciling their own scholastic regimens with the rapidly-changing sociocultural scene and political events impacting their lives resonates with the themes of change, adaptation and development throughout the novel. The story is as much a tribute to the wrestling stars of the era, virtually unheralded as compared to those of the 21st century enjoying the benefits of electronic social media. Lucien is engulfed in promotional strategies designed to compete in a pop culture overwhelmed by revolutionary concepts in music, TV, movies and the arts. The public is fascinated by a University professor working with Jim Dandy, leader of the most notorious bad-guy clique in the wrestling world. He becomes an item of interest throughout the media, attracting undue attention to himself and Anna as well as making him an icon at the University. Yet he finds himself serving as a lightning rod for the IWA as he is constantly questioned over the nefarious deeds of Team Dandy as well as those of other wrestling villains. The plot takes a dark turn as Anneliese’s elderly father is misidentified as a war criminal and incarcerated pending an extradition hearing. Lucien’s ring persona is such that Manfred Krieger’s defense team requests that he no longer attend the proceedings. It puts great stress on Lucien, coupled by the fact that the IWA is going through troubled times and placing greater demands on their roster. Lucien and Anna’s relationship undergoes enormous strain but it is their love for one another that keeps them going. The life and times of a college professor at NYU during the turbulent Sixties also provides a fascinating introspective in a multi-layered, entertaining yet analytical novel. For wrestling fans, Sixties buffs, romance and comedy/drama audiences alike, Both Sides Now is one not to be forgotten.