Scottish novelist Andrew O'Hagan, known for his insightful exploration of social class and identity, dives deep into the elusive nature of success. He examines the character Campbell Flynn from his latest novel, discussing the haunting question of whether wealth and status can truly bring happiness. O'Hagan shares personal anecdotes from his own upbringing, reflecting on the complexities of friendship, loyalty, and the ethical dilemmas tied to ambition. The conversation also critiques London's elite culture, particularly the unsettling influence of wealth on personal integrity.
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Novel Spark in National Gallery
Andrew O'Hagan found the spark for his novel while observing a Scottish professor and his student at the National Gallery.
This moment opened up the idea of a contemporary London novel intertwined with art, society, and personal conflict.
insights INSIGHT
London as Money Laundering Hub
London has become a laundering hub for corrupt wealth, especially Russian oligarch money.
This underlying corruption sets the moral landscape and climax for O'Hagan's novel about modern London society.
insights INSIGHT
Unchanging Geography of Poverty
Victorian poverty maps still correlate with modern London poverty and wealth distribution.
Despite social advances, economic inequality remains deeply entrenched in London's geography over centuries.
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John le Carre's "A Perfect Spy" delves into the complex world of espionage through the eyes of Magnus Pym, a spy whose life is a carefully constructed deception. The novel explores themes of betrayal, identity, and the moral ambiguities inherent in the spy game. Pym's intricate web of lies and manipulations unravels as he confronts his past and the consequences of his actions. Le Carre masterfully portrays the psychological toll of espionage, highlighting the human cost of deception and the struggle for self-preservation. The novel's intricate plot and compelling characters make it a standout in the spy fiction genre.
Dombey and Son
Jason Lee
A. Willis
Ian Perkin
Charles Dickens
Forster, John
Dombey and Son, a novel by Charles Dickens, explores themes of family, ambition, and the complexities of human relationships. The story centers around the wealthy businessman, Mr. Dombey, and his obsession with his son, Paul. Dickens critiques the materialistic values of Victorian society and the destructive nature of unchecked ambition. The novel features a cast of memorable characters, each grappling with their own personal struggles. Dombey and Son is a complex and multifaceted work, showcasing Dickens' skill in creating memorable characters and weaving together multiple storylines.
Caledonian Road
Andrew O'Hagan
What happens when a man can't stop his drive and desire for more? Author Andrew O'Hagan dissects the pitfalls of more money, more success and more applause (R)
Andrew O’Hagan is the author of several highly acclaimed novels.
His most recent book is a sweeping portrait of modern-day London, a city ‘levitating on a sea of dirty Russian money’.
The main character, Campbell Flynn, is much like Andrew himself: a public intellectual who escaped from the Scottish council estate he grew up in and came to London to enjoy great success.
But success, a big house, a loving family and expensive habits are not enough.
Campbell is a man riding for a fall, and there will be many spectators at the final hurrah, when his life comes tumbling down.
Further information
First Broadcast May 2024, and recorded at the Melbourne Writers' Festival.
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