80-Year-Old Author Julian Barnes Pens Final Book

Julian Barnes, the acclaimed Booker Prize-winning author, has announced that his latest novel, "Departure(s)," will be his final published book. At 80 years old, Barnes expressed a sense of completion, stating he has "played all my tunes" after a distinguished 45-year career that includes 15 novels and 10 nonfiction works. He clarified that he will continue writing journalism and reviews but considers his novel-writing chapter closed.

"Departure(s)" is described as a hybrid of memoir, essay, and fiction, exploring themes central to Barnes's oeuvre such as memory, love, friendship, aging, and death. The novel centers on the author's role as a go-between for two anonymized friends. Barnes, who has been managing a rare blood cancer with daily chemotherapy pills, described his current health status as a "score draw," acknowledging the weakening effects on his body.

In personal revelations, Barnes, who was widowed in 2008, disclosed his secret remarriage last August to publisher Rachel Cugnoni, his partner of eight years. Reflecting on his career, he expressed gratitude for a life that exceeded his early expectations. While no longer terrified of death, he noted that aging and a declining body have altered his perspective on mortality.