Kevin Barry's novel made "The New York Times Ten Best Books Of 2019 List," and, while it may not make mine, I can understand why it got on The Times' list. While the book is gritty as hell--two retired, down and out Irish drug dealers/addicts waiting for said boat of the title, muse on their lives in a style that is verse like, and recalls Samuel Beckett--its strength is also its brevity.
Which is what makes all the grittiness--drugs, prostitutes, masturbation, a missing daughter--spewed out by both Maurice Hearne and Charles Redmond--almost lyrical and poetic; the Irish way, by God. "Night Boat To Tangier" is beautifully structured as it is compelling; the two often do not coincide, but they do, here. I was genuinely impressed by Barry's literary achievement. He is able to construct deftly what in lesser hands would be tedious and boring.
Mr. Barry should be congratulated on his achievement. I recommend this for lovers of serious, and satisfying, fiction!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Would I steer you wrong, darlings???????????????????
“Gritty” and “Lyrical” are both perfect words.
ReplyDeleteThe audiobook is read in a genuine Irish brogue!!
ReplyDeleteVictoria,
I would love to hear it read.
It could almost be staged as a play!