Surviving

Allan Massie

Editions

Review

Set among a group of recovering alcoholics in Rome, this is an impressive novel that powerfully conjures the difficulties of living with this problem – both from within and without.  Three of the major characters resist drink: Belinda, a solitary middle-aged woman who impresses others by her apparent capacity to find contentment in small things; Kate, a former barrister who has become an academic; Tom Durward, an ageing screenwriter.  And two succumb: Mike, a wannabe writer, and Stephen, a failing priest.  Their common history gives them a powerful bond which is met head-on at their AA meetings, but their characters are distinct.  Massie allows individuality to each one, which is why the book, in the end, reaches beyond alcoholism to address the essential unknowability of people, especially those you think you know the best.

This book has the ring of authenticity, which is perhaps why it was turned down by many mainstream publishers.  There are occasional infelicities which might have been ironed out of a more conventional publication, but perhaps at the cost of some of its virtues.  It is remarkably concise; it is shrewd, compassionate and true; and the crime/mystery at its heart makes for a compelling read. - review by John de Falbe

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