Books matching: dublin 1980s
5 result(s)
- #1
Save:'All Names Have Been Changed' by Claire Kilroy is set in Dublin in the 1980s and follows a group of students at Trinity College who are taking a creative writing class taught by the troubled writer Professor Patrick Glynn. The story delves into the dynamics within the group, the individual reactions of the characters towards each other and towards Glynn, as well as the unraveling of Glynn's personal and professional life. The narrative explores themes of obsession, idolization, disillusionment, and the complexities of relationships during a time of recession.
- #2
Save:'The Van' in 'The Barrytown Trilogy' by Roddy Doyle follows the story of two friends, Jimmy Sr. and Bimbo, as they embark on a venture to run a mobile chip shop. Set in Dublin in the '80s, the book captures the struggles of the working-class Irish life, the dynamics within the Rabbitte family, and the challenges faced by the characters in their pursuit of a better life. The writing style, characterized by authentic dialogues and urban anthropology, brings out the humor, sadness, and reality of the characters' lives, making the story both entertaining and reflective of the Irish working-class experience.
Jimmy Sr left Darren in the kitchen and went out to the front step and sat on it. Christ, the step was cold; he’d end up with piles or the flu or something. But there was nowhere else to go until afte...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Barrytown Trilogy ) - #3
Save:Montpelier Parade by Karl Geary is a coming of age story set in 1980s Dublin, focusing on the life of Sonny, a young working-class protagonist struggling with his environment. The story revolves around Sonny's unlikely relationship with Vera, an older woman, and the impact it has on his life. The novel is praised for its beautiful writing style that captures the essence of love, desire, intimacy, and sadness in a bleak setting.
You stood beside Mrs Anderson, cleaning the glass meat counter using folded newspaper and water mixed with a couple of tablespoons of vinegar. At the side of Mrs Anderson’s head where the bandage stop... - #4
Save:"The Commitments" by Roddy Doyle is a humorous and engaging story about a group of blue-collar Dubliners who come together to form a soul band, inspired by the sounds of Motown. Led by Jimmy Rabbitte, the band faces the challenges of honing their musical abilities, dealing with internal conflicts, and navigating the Dublin music scene. The novel is written in a unique style, almost exclusively in dialogue, with thick Dublin slang and punctuated with Motown lyrics, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere that captures the essence of the characters and their journey.
The story follows the journey of Jimmy Rabbitte as he assembles a group of eclectic youths, including seasoned musicians and aspiring talents, to create their own version of American soul music known as Dublin Soul. Through witty banter, colorful characters, and a fast-paced plot, the book delves into the rise and fall of the band, The Commitments, portraying their struggles, aspirations, and the dynamics within the group as they strive to make their mark in the music industry.
Jimmy Rabbitte knew his music. He knew his stuff alright. You’d never see Jimmy coming home from town without a new album or a 12-inch or at least a 7-inch single. Jimmy ate Melody Maker and the NME e... - #5
Save:'The Book of Kells' by R.A. MacAvoy is a time-travel fantasy set in modern and Viking Ireland. The story follows an artist, John Thornburn, and his professor girlfriend, Derval O'Keane, who accidentally open a time gate to an Irish abbey attacked by Vikings. They get involved in rescuing victims, fighting Vikings, and navigating the complex politics of 10th-century Ireland. The plot is a mix of historical accuracy and fantasy elements, with engaging characters and richly evocative descriptions of the time period.
Perhaps the sound of the Uillean pipes was knocking plaster from the ceiling, or perhaps John Thornburn had neglected his household duties, for the ramps of sunlight braced against the floor were spar...
