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Colm Tóibín's long-anticipated sequel to 'Brooklyn' is 'Long Island'
May 15, 2024
Author Colm Tóibín discusses his unexpected sequel to 'Brooklyn,' 'Long Island,' following protagonist Eilis Lacey in her 40s. The story delves into her domestic upheaval after discovering her husband's affair. Tóibín explores Eilis's return to Ireland, cultural clashes, and the evolution of self-perception, leaving room for future sequels.
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Quick takeaways
- Colm Tóibín's unexpected sequel 'Long Island' challenges protagonist Eilis Lacey in her 40s with new life obstacles.
- Creating moments of pure terror for characters can drive the narrative forward and shape their growth.
Deep dives
Colm Toibin's Unplanned Sequel 'Long Island'
Colm Toibin, known for his novel 'Brooklyn', unexpectedly wrote a sequel called 'Long Island' about the same character, Eilish Lacey, now a mother in her 40s. Toibin didn't intend to create a sequel but was inspired by an image that came to his mind, leading him to explore Eilish's new life. The novel begins with a dramatic event that challenges Eilish and sets the tone for the narrative, emphasizing the importance of creating moments of pure terror for characters to drive the plot forward.
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