Milkman by Anna Burns
Life here, said real milkman, simply has to be lived and died in extremes. An 18 year old female attracts the attention of Milkman and her normally straight forward existence within her Community takes an unexpected turn. Rumours over her alleged relationship threatens to make her an outcast, of her own family, relationships and place within the world. Rumours so often taken to be fact in her place.
Rarely do characters have their given names mentioned. They are alluded to instead by labels, such as 'nearly boyfriend', 'first sister', 'third brother-in-law'.
A very clever way of keeping focus on the subject matter whilst still understanding the dynamic between the encountered characters. Presented flawlessly as the inner voice of a Northern Irish teenager, struggling with her identity, her place in her family, and against the wider backdrop of the Troubles.
It is a piece which explores the restrictive roles of women, particularly, in a dark and turbulent time, with double standards and inexplicable power structures. This book is unlike anything I have ever read. It is full of symbolism, motifs and themes.
Students of literature would have a field day with this. Underneath is a prevailing sense of darkness and helplessness. Many times whilst reading this I laughed out loud. The observations of Northern Ireland mannerisms and phrases are portrayed so accurately it is almost startling to have them reflected back at you. So insightful it hits nerves in anyone Be warned - the chapters can be very long indeed, and finding suitable places to stop reading a challenge. The language is complex and intellectual, which again reflects the essence of the protagonist expertly.
It can be challenging to read but, in my opinion, well worth every sentence.
Submitted by Noreen
