Richard

Richard is a young British man in his early twenties who has developed a habit of using travel to exotic destinations his version of escaping reality. He feels comfortable enough in foreign countries to purchase dope, stay in guest-houses that are off the tourist trail, and speak to strangers.

In this novel, Richard lands in Thailand without a specific agenda, and chooses to find a hidden beach reported to be a exotic paradise. He joins forces with a young French couple, and with the help of a map given to him, locates the beach and begins living in the commune. Dissatisfied with paradise, Richard manipulates the occupants, plays out his Vietnam war fantasies, and eventually ruins the paradise for everyone through his behavior and selfish attitude.

Richard lusts after Francoise, clumsily spies on the Thai guards, craves excitement, obsesses about video games, is a chain smoker and a...