What Would It Be Like?

Claire Keegan's "Small Things Like These" is a poignant novella set in rural Ireland during the 1980s. It centers on Bill Furlong, a hardworking coal merchant, who discovers a disturbing secret that forces him to confront the injustices of his community. The story unfolds with understated power, exploring themes of compassion, morality, and the enduring impact of the past. Keegan's prose is both spare and deeply affecting, creating a sense of intimacy and immediacy. The novel's quiet intensity leaves a lasting impression, prompting reflection on the choices we make and the consequences that follow.