Blog written by Sally
Where my heart used to beat by Sebastian Falks is narrated by Robert Hendricks, a recently retired psychiatrist in his early sixties, World War II veteran, and son of a World War I veteran who never returned home. Robert opens with a tale of self-regret over a recent bleak encounter with a hooker while away at a medical conference. Somewhat wryly retold, the story is tangled with reminisces about his youth, war time experience, and the painful memory of the 'shimmering' experience of his first love.
Once back at home in London, things seem even worse. An anonymous angry phone call puts him on edge, he is an awkward guest at a housewarming party in his building, gets lumbered with looking after a drunk woman in his flat, which inflames the breakup with his girlfriend, who also is two timing him. There is also an intriguing letter from an elderly man living on an island off the south of France who may have known his father who offers an invitation to visit. So Robert leaves London and this leads to an exploration of his past.
The writing is wonderful. It gives a feeling of discovery as if reading a true personal history. But it is a harsh and bleak history. A new discovery brings a very moving end to this tale of reminiscence.
Most of us read the book and were impressed by the writing, including how well the war experiences were captured. However, the depressing theme makes it quite a challenging read.
The Tennyson poem of the title reflects the profound sense of loss this novel conveys.
Our average rating for this novel is 7.2 out of 10. It is described as :
"Rich writing, enjoyable reading but may not recommend it "
"Insightful"
"Plot had holes - good writing but Birdsong was amazing at the time"
"War stories were well woven"
Our next meeting is on Wednesday July 26th at Megan's and our choice is The Japanese Lover by Isabel Allende
