Foregone by Russell BanksMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
I have mixed feelings about this book. There are several layers of confusion for the reader, perhaps to simulate what is going on with the main character, whose mind is no longer clear with the treatments and medications due to his illness, dying of cancer.
As a reader I didn’t particularly like the lack of quotation marks, the frequent interruptions to the narration, and repetition of some aspects. Yet this helps amplify the tension to mimic what is going on with Leonard Fife, as he is trying to tell his wife Emma who he really is and must do this in front of a camera with her in the room, otherwise he’d lie to her. Leo wants Emma to truly know him before he dies, and this confession feels necessary. He’s a filmmaker and his protégé is happy to film this, although expected a Q&A format, regardless he keeps the camera rolling.
The narrative has a stream of consciousness feel, and full of details and emotions which holds interest. In fact this is what helped me to continue reading. In the end was my curiosity satisfied; well, not really.
I expect this book would bring many discussions and analysis. The writing quality is there, but not always the easiest, or most pleasing, to read.
Thanks to Ecco/HarperCollins Publishers and NetGalley for an uncorrected electronic advance review copy of this book.
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