* shortlisted for both the Booker Prize and the Whitbread Novel Award, and winner of a Commonwealth Writers Prize *
Set against the background of Nelson Mandela’s release, IN EVERY FACE I MEET is the story of Anthony Northleach, and one intense, comic and horrifying day in his life.
With the brio and intelligence for which he has been so widely praised, Justin Cartwright captures the life of an apparently ordinary Englishman – his marriage, his work, his sexual relationships and his connection to the events and sports of the world around him – until his day takes on the aspect first of a waking dream then of a true nightmare.
Its horrifying conclusion, as Anthony Northleach runs into a south London prosititute, is shocking because the reader has come to see his story as both emblematic and savagely observant. Friendship, it seems, is all Anthony has left.
Dive into the compelling world of Justin Cartwright's "In Every Face I Meet," a literary masterpiece that explores the complexities of identity, connection, and the human condition against the backdrop of a pivotal moment in history: Nelson Mandela's release. This critically acclaimed novel, shortlisted for both the prestigious Booker Prize and the Whitbread Novel Award, and winner of a Commonwealth Writers Prize, offers a profound and unsettling glimpse into the life of an seemingly ordinary Englishman, Anthony Northleach. Published in 1996 by Sceptre, this second edition paperback (ISBN: 9780340637838) takes the reader on an intense journey through a single, transformative day in Anthony's existence. Cartwright masterfully weaves together elements of dark humor, social commentary, and psychological suspense, creating a narrative that is both captivating and deeply disturbing. Anthony Northleach, at first glance, appears to be an average man navigating the everyday realities of marriage, work, and relationships. He's connected to the wider world through sports and current events, living a life that seems comfortably mundane. However, as the day unfolds, reality begins to warp, blurring the lines between waking life and a surreal, unsettling dream. This dream quickly descends into a horrifying nightmare, forcing Anthony to confront the hidden truths and vulnerabilities within himself. Cartwright's prose is sharp, insightful, and often laced with a biting wit. He explores the themes of friendship, isolation, and the search for meaning in a world that often feels indifferent. The novel delves into the intricacies of Anthony's psyche, exposing his flaws and insecurities with unflinching honesty. The reader is drawn into Anthony's world, experiencing his confusion, his anxieties, and his desperate attempts to find solace. The narrative culminates in a shocking encounter with a prostitute in South London, a scene that is both unsettling and profoundly symbolic. This encounter serves as a catalyst, forcing Anthony (and the reader) to confront the underlying tensions and contradictions that have been simmering beneath the surface. Cartwright skillfully uses this moment to explore broader social and political themes, reflecting on the legacy of apartheid and the challenges of building a more just and equitable society. "In Every Face I Meet" is more than just a compelling story; it's a literary exploration of the human condition. Cartwright's masterful storytelling, combined with his insightful character development and sharp social commentary, makes this novel a must-read for anyone interested in contemporary literature and the complexities of the human experience. This 224 page novel has a weight of only 160g. It offers a unique and unforgettable reading experience that will stay with you long after you turn the final page. This literary fiction is a perfect option if you enjoy the work of authors like Ian McEwan and Julian Barnes.
