Our Evenings

Fascinating to read this so shortly after Real Life. Both focus on outsider status—as non-Caucasian and homosexual, being forced to operate in a world where others make the rules. However, whereas Brandon Taylor's work radiates with anger, Hollinghurst's is much more subtle and nuanced. The latter, of course, may simply be a better and more mature author. This does Our Evenings something of a disservice, since its remit is also grander. Think of the novel as being an account of one man's life, from awkward boy at boarding school in the 1960s through to his death at the start of the pandemic. It also reads as a state-of-the-nation novel, the narrative arc stretching from the decriminalisation of homosexuality through to Brexit (Hollinghurst is clearly no fan) and COVID. There are some beautiful set pieces of writing, a darkly comedic and ironic undertone, and a narrative pace that starts slowly and gradually builds. Throughout there is the narrator's constant marvel at life—its unknowability and unpredictability—as well as ongoing interrogation of race, prejudice, privilege and violence. Throughout, the universal themes of grief, love and art endure. At almost 500 pages, this is a worthwhile commitment.

By Alan Hollinghurst