Nicely read

I felt there was too much minutiae of daily life. Not Colm Toibins’ best but not terrible

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Crucial in exploring Colm Toibin

This is an intense novel w a central character of Eamon Redmond, set in mid 20th century Ireland, that is both personal, reflecting a childhood, partly denied, that impinges emotionally upon his marriage and relationship with his children but also shapes his political and social outlook.
Ireland had gained independence from Britain and the nationalists struggle to adapt to a more liberal world, less constrained by catholic orthodoxy. In part, Redmond is a victim of loss and a disabled father; professionally he must deal with a challenging political and new social reality, and finally as the sea erodes the cliffs near his home, he is prompted by the newest generation to respond and connect with the present.
This is intricate and moving writing, and probably crucial if one chooses to read Colm Tobin.

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1 person found this helpful

Insightful

I mostly enjoyed this book. Colm Toibin is brilliant at bringing characters to life, and setting a believably accurate Irish scene. Stephen Hogan's narration was excellent and complimented or even enhanced Toibin's writing. What I could have done without, and so could his story, were the explicit sex descriptions. It made me cringeand didn't add much to the story. That was my only criticism and the reason for the four stars instead of five. Although this was written in the 1990's its topicality is as it's only just been written. The main character Eamon Redmond, a judge in a case that involves the expulsion of a girl from school because she has had a baby - relevant to the massive yes vote to abortion in Ireland, that has just taken place. It is just one example of past intolerance and cruelty to women/girls bearing children out of wedlock.

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5 people found this helpful