Crime writer Ian Rankin and singer Colin MacIntyre discuss 'The Glass Pearls,' a reissued book by Emoryk Pressburger. They delve into the moral complexity of empathizing with a character with a dark past, explore a character's transformation and self-discovery, and discuss a visually rich and magical novel. They also reflect on the current trend of seeking escapism in books and emphasize the importance of empathy.
The Glass Pearls explores the moral complexity of a hunted Nazi in 1960s London and delves into themes of empathy, storytelling, and the banality of evil.
Widow Basquiat captures the essence of 1980s New York and delves into themes of drug abuse, decline, and the complex dynamics of relationships while offering a window into the vibrant and creative scene of the era.
Deep dives
The Glass Pearls by Emric Pressburger
The Glass Pearls by Emric Pressburger is a story set in 1960s London, amidst the rising swing of the city's cultural scene. The protagonist is a piano tuner and German refugee living a quiet life, but with a sinister secret. The novel explores the moral complexity of the main character, a hunted Nazi, and the tension and paranoia that surround him as he navigates his love affair with an innocent woman named Helen. The book delves into themes of empathy, storytelling, and the banality of evil, all while providing a vivid and visually rich depiction of mid-60s London.
Widow Basquiat by Jennifer Clement
Widow Basquiat by Jennifer Clement is a memoir that offers a window into the vibrant and creative scene of 1980s New York. It focuses on the relationship between Suzanne Malouk, an artist and aspiring poet, and Jean-Michel Basquiat, an up-and-coming street artist. The book delves into Suzanne's journey and the struggles she faced as she navigated her life as an artist in a volatile and often brutal environment. It explores themes of drug abuse, decline, and the complex dynamics of relationships, while capturing the essence of the era and the emergence of artistic movements.
The Patient Stone by Atik Rahimi
The Patient Stone by Atik Rahimi is a haunting and disturbing novel set in Afghanistan. Written in a play-like format, the story revolves around a man in a coma and his wife, who serves as the main narrator. The novel delves into themes of sexual incompetence, violence, and the complexities of faith in a war-torn society. With its poetic language and vivid imagery, the book offers a unique perspective on the human experience, addressing topics such as despair, religious belief, and the impact of war on individuals.
Overall Insights
These three dark and thought-provoking books delve into the complexities of human nature and the challenges faced in different historical and cultural contexts. They explore themes such as morality, empathy, artistic expression, and the impact of societal unrest. Through vivid storytelling and powerful character development, they provide readers with insightful and emotionally compelling narratives that prompt reflection on the human condition.