Fiction Gallery (Press, 17 August 1974)

On 17 August 1974, two novels were reviewed that delve into complex human emotions and experiences. The first, "The Examination" by Rudolf Nassauer, is described as a strange and somewhat unsettling narrative that unfolds through a tapestry of dreams and fantasies. The story revolves around a German refugee who, after establishing a family business in London, faces bankruptcy, which shatters his life’s meaning and stability. For the next four years, the protagonist lives in confusion and self-loathing. His path to recovery is marked by a reflection on pivotal moments and relationships from his past, particularly the loss of his wife and children following the financial collapse, as well as the influence of his parents on his complicated psyche. The novel features various characters, including a malevolent auditor who precipitates the bankruptcy and a priest whose role is less clearly defined but adds depth to the narrative. The review suggests that the novel operates on multiple levels, making it a rich subject for analysis, yet it is also accessible for casual readers who are willing to engage deeply with its themes. The second novel, "Richard's Thing" by Frederic Raphael, tells the story of a suddenly widowed middle-aged woman who has long believed her marriage to be one of mutual happiness. Upon discovering that her husband's heart attack occurred while he was with a younger woman, she becomes consumed by the need to connect with this woman in an attempt to regain her sense of self. Their relationship, rooted in lesbianism, is fraught with tension and impending disaster. However, the widow ultimately confronts her future with a stoic acceptance, armed with the experiences of aging and lost passion. The author is praised for his skillful dialogue and vivid descriptions of everyday scenes, such as women shopping in a supermarket, which add layers of realism to the narrative. While the book is characterised as light-weight, it is noted for its pacing and insightful portrayal of the female experience, elevating it above similar works in the genre.

The text on this page is created, in the most part, using Generative AI and so may contain errors or omissions. It is supplied to you without guarantee or warranty of correctness. If you find an error or would like to make a content suggestion please get in contact

The text on this page is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 New Zealand