Alistair's Reviews > When All is Said

Sitting at the bar of the local, Maurice Hannigan, over the course of one evening, relates the stories of five people in a series of toasts. As he tells the stories Maurice's own life is revealed, from his early teenage years working for the sadistic local squire, to his beloved brother's death; through his marriage to Sadie and fatherhood. Maurice at 84 sits alone and it's not difficult to fathom why he needs to recall past times. For Maurice has made an important decision, one that invites reflection. As an (Irish) man of a certain age he is clear-eyed about the past, allowing himself no convenient excuses to explain his behaviour.
A compelling account of a good man's imperfect life.