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Writer's affair: Lust, lies, and a poet's obsession
28 May
Summary
- A writer's infatuation with an older, famous poet forms the novel's core.
- The relationship explores complex power dynamics and themes of love and lust.
- Despite a strong start, the novel's narrative and stylistic coherence falter.
Rozie Kelly's debut novel, a finalist for the Women's prize for fiction, commences with a writer's intense infatuation with a renowned, older poet. The unnamed narrator, initially in a stable relationship, becomes consumed by the desire to be with the poet, admiring her success and fame.
The relationship quickly intensifies, moving from discussions of poetry to a passionate affair. This new connection complicates the narrator's existing relationship and introduces themes of lust, power, and identity. The poet is eventually nicknamed "Kingfisher" due to her affinity for birds.
The narrative further explores the complexities of love and desire, particularly as the poet faces a terminal cancer diagnosis. Meanwhile, the narrator grapples with his own relationship's decline and encounters family conflict with his prejudiced mother.
Despite a compelling premise and bold opening, the novel struggles with narrative focus. Characters and plot lines are introduced but not fully developed, leading to a sense of uncertainty in style and tone. The story takes an unexpected turn towards gothic fantasy, leaving some readers questioning the resolution.
