Having nearly died in a car crash, Henry awakes in hospital, unable to remember a thing about how he got there or even who he is. However, with the help of a steady succession of visitors, he begins to piece together fragments of his past. This is no easy task, because, as memories return, he discovers that life outside hospital is rather complicated and that he needs to learn how to deal with it fast.
Bedside visitors include ex-wife Stephanie, and two children – the beautiful, redheaded Ciara, and son Brendan, who has just come out as gay and moved in with his partner. Next comes Tash, the eccentric, artist mum bordering on senile. And finally Jeremy, Henry’s lover, who is also the twin brother of his second wife. Confusing indeed.
The plot, though outlandish, is nonetheless captivating. As well as numerous narrative twists and turns, ‘Foolish Mortals’ has a cast of convincing characters. Each is introduced skilfully slowly, allowing them to be understood before their role in the events is made clear. This artful timing ensures that, even when the events which take place are nearing ridiculous, we are still able to empathise with the protagonists. Henry’s efforts at remembering the feelings he had for Jeremy are particularly touching.
So is his gradual, nightmarish realisation of what happened leading up to the crash. Johnston is one of the most revered contemporary Irish writers, and this, her fifteenth novel, makes it easy to understand why. Her style is simple and colloquial – which can be disconcerting at first. There are no misplaced literary pretensions: story and characters take priority. However, this modest approach works so well that the result is great writing all the same.
This latest offering, then, is a simple and revelatory portrait of one family– of its secrets, lies and joys. And despite some miserable moments, ‘Foolish Mortals’ is essentially an uplifting read.
