This is the long way around of saying that I was fundamentally unprepared for what happens in The Innocent. The back of the novel makes vague mention of “a terrible evening,” and McEwan doesn’t skimp on the “terrible” part. So if you’re looking for a nice, star-crossed romance with some complications to love and a poignant end, look elsewhere.
Find out why I was so surprised at Pop Culture Penalty Box. [no spoilers, I promise.]
I read this novel three summers ago, and when it got to THAT PART, I physically started retching–probably one of the few times I have ever had such a revulsion while reading. Also, you really must read Atonement. The movie pales in comparison. McEwan doesn’t do romantic (not really), but there are some beautiful passages in The Child in Time, even if the ending is a bit saccharine.
Weirdly, even though I really didn’t enjoy this book, it made me really want to read Atonement.
I was so unprepared for THAT PART. Sitting on a train, minding my own business, reading my book….BAM.