Changes

This Noel Coward is old, tired and far from the flamboyant character we all think of when his name is uttered. The midday sun is an anathema to him; his man servant manservant constantly trying to persuade him to take a stroll; and Noel, constantly trying to avoid it.

We see glimpses of the old Noel, as he slips back and forth between 'now' and 'then'. The then: the glamorous days, the lovers, the glitz, music, champagne cocktails. And now? Heat, desperate weariness, and an overwhelming sense of ennui. This Noel seems to consider himself an exile. There are numerous references to being unwelcome in England. But was this a self -imposed exile?

I admit I have a sketchy knowledge of the man. A fleeting image of velvet smoking jacket, languidity and a cutting wit, combined with an enduring talent. So, shame on me, I had to look him up. For that is one thing about this novel. It makes you want to know. Perhaps shaming an ignoramus such as me for not knowing. My whistle -stop tour of the life and times of Noel Coward show a man similar to the one I had imagined, but the references to being unable to return to England had made me suppose that it had been his sexual predilections that had had him driven out. The truth? Tax reasons or so sources tell me, although Coward denied it.

I finished this book feeling I need to read it again. Janette Jenkins' writing is beautiful. Languid, slow -moving and beautifully crafted. But perhaps like the Jamaica of my imagining, I have to experience it over, fully immerse myself before I can appreciate it thoroughly.

If this book appeals then you might also enjoy [[Agatha Christie: An English Mystery by Laura Thompson]]. You might also enjoy [[Angel of Brooklyn by Janette Jenkins]].