British author Alan Hollinghurst, renowned for his explorations of sexuality and identity, discusses his latest novel, Our Evenings, which serves as a poignant meditation on memory and loss. He shares insights into the emotional journey of writing and the significance of mixed-race identities. Hollinghurst also delves into the themes of nostalgia and national identity, particularly in light of Brexit. The conversation further examines the evolution of queer literature, showcasing how personal experiences shape his narrative and character development.
Alan Hollinghurst's novel 'Our Evenings' intricately explores memory and identity through the mixed-race experiences of its narrator, Dave Wynn.
Hollinghurst reflects on the emotional complexity of crafting a narrative over sixty years, intertwining personal grief with artistic expression.
Deep dives
Exploration of Outsider Themes
The latest novel by Alan Hollinghurst, titled 'Our Evenings', delves into themes of memory, regret, and the complexities of identity through the lens of its narrator, Dave Wynn, who is half Burmese. This character's unique background offers a fresh perspective on outsider experiences, particularly in the context of being mixed race within predominantly white British society. The narrative intricately explores Dave's journey as an actor, allowing for illuminating insights into the world of performance and its relation to self-identity. The novel reflects Hollinghurst's signature style while pushing boundaries and evolving the discourse around race and societal structures.
Writing Process and Personal Reflection
Hollinghurst candidly shares his writing process, emphasizing the emotional complexities involved in crafting 'Our Evenings'. He discusses the challenges of structuring a narrative that spans over sixty years, highlighting the intense decisions regarding which memories to select for the memoir-like tale. The author mentions how writing has become more exhausting and complicated over time, raising expectations for himself as he matures in his craft. His reflections include the interplay of personal experiences and the artistic representation of those experiences through the lens of his characters.
Cultural Resonance and Memoir Elements
The novel subtly weaves in poignant reflections on the impact of cultural and generational shifts, particularly related to issues such as Brexit. While Hollinghurst consciously avoids labeling 'Our Evenings' as a Brexit novel, it serves as a backdrop for exploring concepts of belonging and the evolving landscape of British identity. The author connects his writing to personal grief and loss, drawing parallels between his own life experiences and those of Dave, particularly regarding the sense of dispossession felt after losing a parent. This ties beautifully into the thematic resonance of memory and identity, as both characters and readers navigate the complexities of their pasts.
Best known for his thought-provoking explorations of sexuality and identity across generations, British author Alan Hollinghurst rose to international stardom after his 2004 novel The Line of Beauty was awarded the Booker Prize. In his seventh novel, Our Evenings, Alan adopts the memoir format, offering a delicate meditation on memory, loss, and the passage of time. On this episode of Read This, Alan discusses his life and career and reveals why this book is as close as he will get to writing a memoir.