Life and Art from FT Weekend Culture chat: ‘Intermezzo’ and the Sally Rooney phenomenon
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Sep 27, 2024 
Laura Battle, deputy books editor at the Financial Times, and Griselda Murray-Brown, commissioning editor for FT Magazine, dive into the buzz around Sally Rooney's new novel, Intermezzo. They dissect the themes of familial loss and relationships, exploring why Rooney resonates with millennials. The discussion shifts to the blending of personal experiences with broader generational challenges in her storytelling. They also tackle the expectations around Rooney's political messages compared to her narrative style, questioning the role of literature in addressing societal issues.
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Laura's Rooney Journey
- Laura Battle enjoyed Rooney's first two novels and the Normal People adaptation, but found the third rather dry.
- However, she loved Intermezzo and found it emotionally engaging.
Rooney's Character Focus
- Sally Rooney excels at getting under the skin of her characters, making them feel real and relatable.
- Her plots revolve around "will they, won't they" dynamics, focusing on emotional journeys rather than complex storylines.
The Literary Mundane
- Rooney's writing makes everyday moments feel significant, creating a visceral reading experience.
- Scenes revolving around ordinary objects like bathtubs or pizza boxes become strangely memorable.