Colm Tóibín, renowned for "Brooklyn," presents "Long Island," a new novel set two decades after the events of his previous work. It follows Eilis Lacey, now in her 40s, married to Tony Fiorello in Long Island. When an Irishman alleges Tony's paternity of his child and plans to leave the baby with Eilis, her past resurfaces. Tóibín explores Eilis' inner turmoil and her relationships within the tight-knit community.
Tóibín is a widely acclaimed author with 11 novels in his catalog. His literary achievements include being shortlisted for The Booker Prize three times and winning awards like the Costa Novel and IMPAC awards. Moreover, Tóibín has two other collections of stories; some of his written works are non-fiction.
Speaking to The New York Times, Tóibín explained that his return to writing more of certain characters was not driven by a desire but rather by the emergence of a specific scene in his mind involving those characters. He clarified that he was not contemplating the previous book but instead focusing on the aftermath of a particular event and how the character would navigate through it. This led him to envision a new story with the existing character.
In the latest novel, Eilis' peaceful existence is shattered when a stranger accuses Tony of infidelity, alleging that his wife is carrying Tony's child. This revelation compels Eilis to return to her hometown, where she reunites with Jim Farrell, a previous romantic interest.
Unbeknownst to Eilis, Jim is now involved with her widowed friend Nancy, who runs a chip shop. Eilis' return sparks speculation among her old acquaintances, with Nancy noting a change in Eilis since her time in America.
A review from The New York Times stated that "Long Island" diverges from its predecessors by introducing a busier narrative filled with more incidents, coincidences, and twists. While this adds excitement, it also diminishes the focus on Eilis herself. The alternating points of view between Eilis, Jim, and Nancy heighten the drama. Still, one can feel somewhat disloyal to Eilis as the central character.
As readers, we become preoccupied with the plot's developments, losing some intimacy with Eilis' character that characterized earlier works. Ultimately, Eilis emerges as another character in the novel rather than the exquisitely drawn, idiosyncratic soul she once was.
According to Kirkus Reviews, the novel opens with a dramatic confrontation. It concludes with a plot twist reminiscent of Edith Wharton. However, the author skillfully employs quiet, restrained prose to depict provincial Ireland's unchanged mores and mindsets. It offers a poignant portrayal of middle age tinged with regret and the challenges of forming meaningful connections.
An NPR review stated that Tóibín's narrative restraint builds tension, inviting readers to engage actively with the story as characters navigate a web of concealed information and calculated half-truths. Tóibín's keen understanding of small-town dynamics, particularly the pervasive presence of gossip, is evident in his depiction of Enniscorthy. This skill in capturing the unspoken is a hallmark of his writing, showcased in works like "The Master and The Magician," where he delicately navigates complex characters and their repressed desires.
In "Long Island," Eilis appears more self-assured after years of marriage and motherhood. Yet, her decisions are unwavering, driven by her imperatives. When faced with Jim's lament over their past, Eilis remains resolute. However, the changes she contemplates now involve uncertainties that require careful navigation.
Tóibín delicately explores these moral dilemmas, weaving past and present to build toward a powerful conclusion. Despite her decisiveness, Eilis remains trapped by the universal experience of longing, highlighting the lack of control she still grapples with in her life.
In conclusion, "Long Island" is a masterful tale with engaging prose. The book showcases Tóibín's understanding of small-town life and complex characters.
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