Are we fearless readers?
Yes!
Are we daunted by any writer's reputation?
No!
Shall we tackle a little bit of Dame Iris, then?
Why not!
When I mentioned Iris Murdoch the other day and saw that the response was largely favourable, I thought I'd go ahead and choose a book of hers for the CBG. After noting everyone's comments and searching out reviews here and there I've gone for the 1968 novel The Nice and the Good, and here's what it says on the back cover:
"A work of coruscating moral brilliance, The Nice and the Good revolves around a happily married couple, Kate and Octavian, and the friends of all ages attached to their house in Dorset. The novel deals with love in its many aspects, as embodied in a fascinating array of characters. The resonant sub plot involves murder and black magic in Whitehall, as the novel leads us through stress and terror to a profoundly joyous conclusion."
The Harpers and Queen critic said, "Rich in people; in important episodes; rich especially in its enigmatic reflections on and attitudes toward love ... Looking back, one remembers the story as one long lovely summer afternoon, during which one did indeed love and learn and laugh and hold one's breath with suspense."
We're doing Cyril Hare's Tragedy at Law next weekend, so after that let's dive in and take the wave and then dry off on the sand (shivery bite in hand, no doubt) and discuss The Nice and the Good on Saturday, 29th. August. Everyone welcome.
Are you willing to take the plunge?!
Just time for your readers to catch last Saturday's Archive on Four about Iris Murdoch. See here.
Posted by: Barbara | 04 July 2009 at 08:35 AM
Are we not men? A: we are devo! I wondered if your opening sentences might have been a subtle homage to remind us of the wonderful days of punk. Well it reminded me instantly of it anyway!
The answer is of course YES as it would have been for any book at all that you offered me as the CBG read. If I can get hold of this I will certainly be contributing.
Posted by: Dark Puss | 04 July 2009 at 08:59 AM
I remember that song!
Posted by: Cornflower | 04 July 2009 at 09:41 AM
Link doesn't work! It's this: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00l953t
Posted by: Barbara | 04 July 2009 at 11:29 AM
I have started this book twice and not yet made it through. I will use your choice to propel me through, being a staunch Iris fan!
Posted by: ted | 04 July 2009 at 01:35 PM
My first Iris book! I'm in. It's on its way to me.
Posted by: Pom Pom | 04 July 2009 at 03:21 PM
Yes, this will be fun!
Must acquire a copy asap.
Posted by: adele geras | 04 July 2009 at 03:43 PM
Oh rats! I'd a feeling you'd pick her for next month and I was hoping it would be 'The sea, the sea' because I bought it in a second-hand bookshop last weekend. Never mind.
Posted by: Mary McCartney | 04 July 2009 at 08:42 PM
Scarey but, yes, I'll have a go! Will order from the library.
Posted by: Claire | 05 July 2009 at 11:08 AM
I looks like my library has one copy and I have put in a hold. I am not familiar with Iris Murdoch but that is why I love visiting your blog - I am finding so much new reading to be done.
Posted by: Juliann | 05 July 2009 at 03:24 PM
Oh, lovely! I had a list of titles I hoped you might pick, but this one wasn't on it, for the very good reason that I can't remember it at all. The only thing is, much as I love her books, I think talking intelligently about them is beyond me, so be prepared for a resoundingly unoriginal comment from this 'ere cat (but I'm sure Dark Puss will do better).
Posted by: GeraniumCat | 11 July 2009 at 04:49 PM