A rivetting chat about art and writing with Patrick Freyne

Normal People is a character-driven novel that delves into the intricate relationship between Marianne and Connell, starting from their high school days in County Sligo, Ireland, and continuing through their university years at Trinity College Dublin. The story explores themes of love, class division, mental health, and the complexities of human connection. Marianne, from an upper-class background with an abusive family, and Connell, from a working-class background, engage in a secret relationship in high school due to Connell's fear of social judgment. As they grow and navigate different social worlds, their relationship is marked by periods of intense connection and separation, influenced by their socioeconomic backgrounds and personal insecurities. Rooney's writing is characterized by its spare prose, detailed character development, and a deep exploration of the psychological and emotional nuances of the characters.

The Wasp Factory is a dark and twisted novel that follows the disturbing thoughts and actions of a teenage boy named Frank, who lives on a remote Scottish island. The story delves into themes of identity, family, and the nature of evil, revealing a tragic tale of isolation and insanity. Frank's life unravels dramatically with the return of his unstable brother, Eric, and the revelation of his own complex past.