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We follow British writer Kenneth Tommey through his adult life. His artist sister Hortense marries a man named Domenico Campanati. Domenico's brother Carlo is a rising star in the Catholic Church. The narration begins post WWI. The rise of the fascist leaders Mussolini and Hitler is roiling Europe. Tommey, an openly gay man, finds success writing for the theater. He is at peace with his homosexuality and defends his right to love whom he chooses. We takes on a few lovers but those relations do not last long.
Much of Tommey's memories and narrative cover his sister Hortense's life. The other central figure is Carlo. Tommey relates his brother-in-law's philosophy, religious interpretations and ascendance in the church. A past lover and poet Val periodically reemerges at events where both men are in attendance. Tommey's work takes him to numerous locals including Africa, Hollywood and the South of France.
The book is dense and written with virtuosity. Though this is a work of fiction, Tommey takes many details and characters from real life. A charismatic religious cult leader named Godrey Manfred is based on the life of Jim Jones for example. Tommey lives a full, but rather simple life. His financial situation is secure. Without any spouse or children, he freely travels, works and lives as he pleases. The narrative style is a memoir written by the aged Tommey. This technique is comprehensive but lacks a driving story arch. We dig into the lives of Tommey and his immediate friends and family and are entertained with a number of interesting anecdotes. Burgess' mastery of the English language and ability to depict realistic dialog and events are impressive. "Earthly Powers" is a stark departure from "Clockwork Orange". It is hard to believe that he authored both impressive novels. "Earthly Powers" is cerebral, confessional and real, but "Clockwork Orange" is the more entertaining and intriguing of the two works.
Much of Tommey's memories and narrative cover his sister Hortense's life. The other central figure is Carlo. Tommey relates his brother-in-law's philosophy, religious interpretations and ascendance in the church. A past lover and poet Val periodically reemerges at events where both men are in attendance. Tommey's work takes him to numerous locals including Africa, Hollywood and the South of France.
The book is dense and written with virtuosity. Though this is a work of fiction, Tommey takes many details and characters from real life. A charismatic religious cult leader named Godrey Manfred is based on the life of Jim Jones for example. Tommey lives a full, but rather simple life. His financial situation is secure. Without any spouse or children, he freely travels, works and lives as he pleases. The narrative style is a memoir written by the aged Tommey. This technique is comprehensive but lacks a driving story arch. We dig into the lives of Tommey and his immediate friends and family and are entertained with a number of interesting anecdotes. Burgess' mastery of the English language and ability to depict realistic dialog and events are impressive. "Earthly Powers" is a stark departure from "Clockwork Orange". It is hard to believe that he authored both impressive novels. "Earthly Powers" is cerebral, confessional and real, but "Clockwork Orange" is the more entertaining and intriguing of the two works.
