Have you ever read a book where you stopped and re-read paragraphs and sentences just to savour its pure beauty? That makes you put down the book, stare into space and which that YOU could write as beautiful and absorbing like the author? “Old God’s Time” is a book just like that.
“No one minds life as long as they are not trying to leave it. Nor death, as long as they are not dying.”
It is captivating, dark, emotional, haunting and because of the subject matter – often disturbing.
“People endured horrors, and then they couldn’t talk about them. The real stories of the world were bedded in silence.”
The protagonist is Tom Kettle, a widower and retired police officer. He lives a peaceful, but lonely and solitary life. Then, a visit from two local police officers, triggers questions and memories about an old cold case. Through “stream-of-consciousness” style writing, we get a deep and personal insight into Tom’s reflections on his past experiences and memories. But can his memories be trusted? How is recollection affected by grief and trauma?
“Exhausted youth is different from exhausted age. It can be repaired.”
Drawn into his memories of grief and trauma, the reader is taken on an emotional journey, alluding to a dark past.
“Some men make flower beds, and some men kill.”
Playing off in Ireland, the raw beauty of the countryside is tangible and vivid. It added to the dark vein of the story.
“There were many terrible stories in the world, and he had heard most of them.”
Sebastian Barry is an expert storyteller. The story, plot and writing are beautifully crafted, and it maybe does require patience and willingness to immerse yourself in the intricate, but lyrical narrative. Persevere, it is absolutely worth it!
Disclosure: With thanks to Jonathan Ball Publishers for the opportunity to read this book.
About the book:
Category: Fiction Books
ISBN: 9780571332786
Publisher: Faber & Faber
Released: April 2023
Format: Paperback
About the author:
Sebastian Barry Sebastian Barry | Biography, Books, Videos, Quotes | Faber
