Unusual and very enjoyable
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I bought this book because I heard it being discussed on the local radio in their weekly book review slot and the reviewer said he was actually reading it at the time and couldn't put it down. I found it equally compulsive and quite unusual in the fact that it was telling two stories of the same family and with a thirty year time gap, taking place mainly in the same holiday house in Cornwall. I did occasionally get a little confused about which story I was in, though the chapter titles do make it quite clear, and much as I wanted to keep reading, I found that a chapter at a time was the easiest way to keep it all clear in my mind. I had great sympathy with all the characters, except Sandy, who I felt was incredibly selfish and just pursuing his own pleasures without a thought of who he was hurting. The others, I felt were really just victims of circumstances. The descriptions of Cornwall were excellent and I instantly recognised the area even though it is often given fictitious names as in Port Isaac.
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Very mature Patrick Gale
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The story of two generations of a family and the events surrounding two stays, separated by some decades, at the same holiday home in Cornwall. It explores the ramifications of the acts of adultery which come to light during these stays, and the interweaving of the implications across the years. From a gay perspective, it is an interesting commentary upon the childhood of a boy who begins to recognise his gayness. As an adult this same person finds himself in a sexual relationship with the husband of his cousin and adopted sister. But more significantly, the novel explores the journey he goes through to leave his role of `bit on the side' to choose commitment and the risk of making a total change in his circumstances to enter a new relationship.
The title refers to the former tradition of members of a community making a noise outside the homes of those considered to be sexual deviants.
This is mature Patrick Gale. Whereas his previous books have been insightful and fun, but busy, this novel travels at a more thoughtful pace. The layering of depth, symbolism and meaning is carefully crafted.
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Rough Music - excellent
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excellent book - excellent author - came across Patrick Gale through the richard and judy book club with another one of his books - Notes on an exhibition. have to say rough music is much better and i really loved the two stories from two different eras being told simulataneously. It was sometimes tempting to skip a chapter to carry on with one of the stories straight away. very well written and i look forward to reading more of Mr Gale's work.
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Gales best characters!
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A great story with twists and enough to keep a reader happy! Gales best book with love and drama and characters that you actually care about! Gales writing style is so easy to read and this book proves it!
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A Patrick Gale classic
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I read Rough Magic after having read Notes from an Exhibition. This book is written in a similar style to Iris Murdoch which I absolutely loved. The emotional perspective is something Patrick Gale not only understands but relishes in his writing. His characterisations are superb. As soon as I finished the book I felt at a loss and began to re-read it, just to absorb the beautiful text and clever twists. Highly recommended.
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