Jack Gladney is an American academic who has
carved out his own personal niche at Blacksmith’s College-on-the-Hill as head
of the unique Department of Hitler Studies, a set-up that rather sets the tone
for the novel.
Blacksmith is a bit of a backwater and Jack
bobs along comfortably with his blended family (fourth wife Babette and four children,
of various mothers) discussing the issues of the day with them and with his
colleague, Murray Jay Siskind. He’s a visiting lecturer in ‘living icons’ and
has an opinion, a theory or an answer for everything.
The first part of the book treats the reader
to some wry observations on (what was in the mid 1980’s) present day American
life, with the recurrent themes of information overload and a low level but
persistent fear of death. Then an ‘airborne toxic event’ occurs, requiring the temporary
evacuation of Blacksmith and jacking up Jack’s anxiety over his mortality. In the
final section a stronger narrative develops as Jack takes action to face his
fears and resolve some issues, leading to an unexpected and eventful climax.
The book grew on me as it moved through its
phases. Initially it provided an interesting, but academic, insight into the
mid 80’s psyche, well written with a mixture of grim humour and plausible
philosophy. Then as the characters’ uncertainties brought out their humanity I
began to care more for their welfare, and by the end of the book I realised I had
thoroughly enjoyed it.
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