Thursday, November 5, 2015

Old Filth / Jane Gardam 290 pp.

The first in a trilogy, this is the story, told largely through reminiscences, of Sir Edward Feathers, better known as Old Filth. (Failed in London, try Hong Kong)  Filth has ended an eminent career as a barrister in Hong Kong and returned to Dorset with his wife Betty.  But before his seemingly tranquil life of comfort and privilege,. he had a tumultuous childhood as a 'Raj orphan.'  Told in dry, witty, and observant language, what stands out here is Filth's individuality.  The events of his life aren't symbolic and don't fit into neat boxes, but the delicately sketched experience reads like the truth.

No comments:

Post a Comment