Dooneen by Keith Ridgway review
Ireland is trembling with nascent social unrest in this labyrinthine tale of one man’s homecoming
TL;DR
- The novel explores themes of home, place, and knowledge through the protagonist Mew's surreal journey from London to Dublin.
- Dublin is depicted as an uncanny city, prone to sudden changes and unsettling presences, reflecting Mew's dislocation.
- The narrative parallels social unrest in Ireland, drawing parallels to political assassinations and a burgeoning protest movement against landlords.
- Mew becomes involved in an underground protest, leading to fragmented storytelling and reflections on Irish resistance and politics.
- The novel emphasizes the importance of human connection, particularly Mew's deep longing for his partner Mootie, as a transcendent element amidst chaos.