Personal Review of So Late in the Day: Stories of Women and Men by Claire Keegan
Readers, sometimes a book finds you just at the right moment, doesn’t it? That was my experience with So Late in the Day: Stories of Women and Men by Claire Keegan. The moment I read the title, a shiver of curiosity ran through me. What stories are hiding there? Keegan’s layered narratives woven into concise but impactful tales captivated me from the start, making me reflect on the intimate complexities of human relationships.
Keegan’s opening story, “So Late in the Day,” is a perfect gateway into her world. It begins with an ordinary day for Cathal, who is suddenly pulled into reminiscence by a familiar scent wafting from a stranger. It’s incredible how a simple fragrance can transport someone back in time, isn’t it? This story delves deep into how our past shapes our present, as Cathal reflects on his time with Sabine in Normandy, a woman who brought genuine warmth and affection into his life. I couldn’t help but root for them, caught in the tenderness of shared moments like Saturday mornings at the farmers’ market. Keegan’s ability to evoke nostalgia through sensory details left me pondering my own memories tied to certain scents—such a powerful, relatable element!
Transitioning to “The Long and Painful Death,” we meet a writer in residence at the home of legendary author Heinrich Böll. Here, Keegan uses the backdrop of creativity intermingled with personal conflict, as the protagonist grapples with an intrusive would-be visitor. Instead of submitting to external pressures, she chooses autonomy, turning her residency into a self-discovery journey. Keegan’s observant prose shines here—“What did it matter? They were here, now, as she was.” The echo of this line resonated with me, as it demonstrates the importance of being present, a theme I find incredibly relevant today.
Meanwhile, “Antarctica” flips the narrative on its head by exploring desires through a married woman’s eyes. I found it both liberating and unsettling, as she escapes her normal life to venture into the unknown. The choice to wear a plum-colored dress and high heels before stepping into a bar felt like a defiance against societal norms, but the twist reminded us that her quest for stability and happiness is a complex one.
What impressed me most, beyond the engaging narratives, was Keegan’s knack for subtlety. Events are not always explained; rather, they unfold gently, allowing readers to fill in the gaps through their own reflections. With only about 17,000 words in total, each story stands as a testament to the idea that brevity can pack a punch, making a lasting impact without unnecessary embellishment.
If you’re someone who enjoys stories that explore the nuances of shared moments, the intricacies of memory, and the sometimes jagged paths of desire and introspection, this collection is for you. Keegan’s writing invites deep thought while keeping you engaged, a blend that’s not easy to achieve.
In a time where we often sprint through life, So Late in the Day spent moments reminding me to pause, reflect, and feel. Long after I turned the last page, I found myself pondering the layers of connections we all hold close. I encourage you to dive into this beautifully crafted collection—it might just find you at the right moment too.
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