White Trash (novel)

White Trash is a 1997 novel by American author Donald Ray Pollock. Set in southern Ohio, primarily in the fictional town of Meade, the novel presents a stark and often brutal portrayal of rural, impoverished life.

The story follows several interconnected characters struggling with poverty, addiction, violence, and a general lack of opportunity. The narrative unfolds through multiple perspectives, offering a fragmented yet comprehensive view of a community marked by desperation and moral decay. Common themes include the cyclical nature of poverty, the impact of substance abuse on families and individuals, and the pervasive sense of hopelessness.

Pollock's writing style is characterized by its unflinching realism and dark humor. He employs graphic language and unflinching depictions of violence and degradation to capture the harsh realities faced by his characters. The novel gained critical attention for its unflinching portrayal of a segment of American society often overlooked or misrepresented in mainstream literature.