Sexual Comedy Of Manners (Press, 2 February 1985)
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Summary: Sexual Comedy Of Manners (Press, 2 February 1985)
"The Will to Fall," written by Valerie Grierson Kirwan and published by Penguin in 1984, presents a vivid exploration of a hedonistic lifestyle through the experiences of its protagonist, Valium K., who serves as a thinly veiled representation of the author herself. Set against the backdrop of Melbourne’s Fitzroy area in the 1970s, the narrative captures the unconventional escapades of Valium as she navigates her poverty-stricken surroundings while indulging in a series of surreal encounters. The story unfolds through Valium's pilgrimages to a remarkable mansion located near a coastal beach where she engages with her lesbian lover Nano, her lover's musician husband Frankie, along with an array of enigmatic visitors and hangers-on. It blends elements of picaresque storytelling with experimental and self-aware narrative techniques, making "The Will to Fall" a quirky examination of alternative lifestyles. Despite the whimsical and often goofy portrayal of Valium's character, the book delves into deeper themes of creativity and self-creation. Valium attempts to shape her chaotic existence through various escapades and interactions, symbolised by her game "Shale Hemly Whirls," which represents the randomness of her social life. However, as the plot progresses, it becomes evident that the whimsical play must eventually give way to confronting the genuine complexities of life. Diane Prout, in her review, highlights the balance of absurdity and introspection present in the novel, noting Valium's childish behaviours and naivety, but also the underlying message of acknowledging life's imperfections. Ultimately, Kirwan’s work is presented not just as a humorous journey but as a contemplation of how individuals can manipulate their realities while accepting the inevitable end of playful facades.
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