The Song before it is Sung
by Justin Cartwright
There were some mixed reactions to this book.
Some found it hard to read with the changing time periods difficult to follow.
It was seen as a failed novel, contrived and artificial and lazy in its use of the stories of real people.
Nearly everyone found Conrad’s character irritating but most found considerable merit in a complex story which rewarded perseverance.
Certainly the discussion engendered was wide-ranging and stimulating and interesting in its reflection of the concerns and pre-occupations of individual readers.
For some of us the narrative following different time periods worked well reflecting a world where prejudice is still rife.
The philosophical strands and political themes were discussed along with the pros and the cons of the various characters.
Most of us enjoyed Tony who provided some humour in a tragic tale.
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