This novel came to my attention while researching my novel idea. Because the novel explores the concept of addiction, my research turned up the typical works. Hunter S. Thompson, James Frey, Irvine Welsh etc. Then somebody suggested Under The Volcano. I researched Malcolm Lowry, and found that the subject of the book closely mirrored his own life. Finding Lowry intriguing, I bought a copy.
Geoffrey Firmin, the British Consul to Mexico, wants to write a book. His endeavours are thwarted by his alcoholism, a problem which affects all areas of his life, not least his relationship with ex-wife Yvonne. Yvonne arrives in Mexico on the Day of The Dead to try and start anew. This is easier said than done however. The presence of Jaques, Geoffrey's childhood friend, and Hugh, his brother who had an affair with Yvonne, only serves to complicate matters.
At first, I struggled with the book. This was mainly because I read about 50 pages and nothing of any consequence had happened. About a week later, I picked it up again and was soon blown away. The book is packed with beautiful imagery and Geoffrey's stream of consciousness. He is a man in a desperate situation, he knows that the drink is killing him but simply can't stop. This exploration of a man on the edge of the abyss is incredibly moving, all the more so when you consider Lowry's own tragic death. Below is the epitaph he wrote for himself.
Malcolm Lowry
Late of the Bowery
His prose was flowery
And often glowery
He lived,nightly, and drank, daily,
And died playing the ukulele.
Selected Poems of Malcolm Lowry
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