Goulash

The Past is a quirky, funny, melancholy portrait of a significant European moment, captured by this most subtle of Americans abroad. Elliott moves to Prague in 1998 to teach English and meets his students in pubs, conducts lessons over pints of local Radegast beer, and falls in love with Amanda. They explore the dark history and surprising wonders of their adopted city, but eventually, their idyll must end as change is the only reality one can't outrun.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 224 pages
\n Publication date: 30 May 2019
\n Publisher: Headline Publishing Group
\n

A captivating and poignant portrayal of a significant European moment, captured by this most subtle of Americans abroad, Tessa Hadley's novel The Past and Late in the Day takes readers on a journey through the heart of Prague in 1998. Eager to escape the suffocating confines of small-town Indiana, Elliott relocates to the vibrant city of Prague, where he takes on the role of an English teacher. It is a time of immense change and transition as the Czech Republic emerges from the shadows of communism and embraces the exhilarating prospects of twenty-first-century capitalism.

Elliott's adventures in Prague are filled with humor, whimsy, and melancholy as he navigates the complexities of a foreign culture. He meets his students in various pubs, where they engage in lively discussions over pints of local Radegast beer. Along the way, he encounters a diverse range of characters, including an experimental artist who steals his shoes and introduces him to a world of eccentric schemes.

But amidst the laughter and camaraderie, Elliott's heart finds solace in the company of Amanda, a fellow English teacher from the United Kingdom. Their connection is instantaneous, and they embark on a romantic journey together, exploring the dark history and surprising wonders of their adopted city. They wander through the twisting ancient streets, encountering expats, movie stars, tobacco executives, a former Soviet informant, and even the president of Poland.

As they immerse themselves in the vibrant tapestry of Prague, Elliott and Amanda begin to feel a sense of belonging and purpose. They cherish their time together, cherishing the moments of intimacy and shared experiences that help them navigate the challenges of being strangers in a strange land. However, as the forces of change continue to reshape the city, it becomes evident that their idyll must end.

Change is the only constant in life, and as the novel reaches its conclusion, Elliott and Amanda must confront the inevitability of their separation. They realize that their love cannot outrun the forces that are shaping the world around them. But even in the face of uncertainty, they hold onto the memories of their time in Prague, knowing that it has left an indelible mark on their hearts and souls.

Tessa Hadley's The Past and Late in the Day is a masterful exploration of love, loss, and the transformative power of change. Through its vivid portrayal of a European moment and its nuanced characters, the novel offers a profound reflection on the human experience and the complexities of navigating the world as it evolves. It is a testament to the enduring power of literature to transport readers to new worlds, evoke emotions, and leave a lasting impact.

\n Weight: 158g\n
Dimension: 192 x 123 x 14 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780755396252\n \n