Is there a numerical solution to the quest for the meaning of life? A brilliant reworking of the classic Dr Faustus theme, Mefisto focuses on the mathematically gifted Gabriel Swan, who seeks a numerical solution to his quest for order and meaning in life. 'Mefisto renders all superlatives woefully inadequate ...Undisputed master of language, the laconic pause and the blackly comic, Banville is a supreme stylist ...He is a magician ...Another expectedly astonishing and very daring display from t...