Third Reading
For good or ill, I am the kind of reader who so immerses in a book that it affects my mood for days, and sometimes I even dream about it. Thus, when I finished Cormac McCarthy's Suttree, I felt discouraged and depressed. So I decided to re-read a novel by my favorite living writer that would improve my mood. This is a beautiful book, both its content and the manner in which it is written. It tells of an undaunted spirit in the face of hardship and persecution. I highly recommend it, especially for times when your own spirit needs a boost.
Roseanne McNulty, as she nears 100 years, decides to write her life story in a secret journal. She is a resident of a mental institution which is about to close. Dr. Grene, one of the psychiatrists, is tasked with determining who can be placed back in society and who must be rehoused elsewhere. The narrative alternates between her journal and his case notes. As he delves into her past and the reason she was initially admitted, secrets are uncovered which have been long buried, affecting his life as well as hers.
Along with the core story, Barry pictures the troubles in Ireland's tumultuous history and the great influence of the Catholic Church, which was not always for the good of the people.
The language in which the book is written is as mesmerizing as the suspenseful story. Barry writes with an Irish lilt -- rhythmic and poetic prose that is a joy to read. I would cite only one misstep in the entire novel: the ending seems a bit contrived. Otherwise, The Secret Scripture is perfect. I would recommend all his novels, especially A Long, Long Way.
The Secret Scripture was short-listed for England's Booker Prize.
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