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A review by yvonnemcd
The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro
3.0
The novel is set in post-war England and follows Stevens on a motoring trip through the countryside, to visit Miss Kenton, a former colleague. However, it’s quickly evident that the journey is very much an internal reflection as it is a physical one. Stevens’ recollections of his time serving Lord Darlington, and his musings on dignity and professional duty, form the heart of the narrative. Ishiguro’s prose is elegant, understated, and rich in nuance, but I sometimes found the style a touch too reserved for my taste.
The novel’s introspective view, can at times feel relentless. I often found myself wishing for a change in tempo or a glimpse of life beyond Stevens’ version of events.
Ultimately, I appreciate why The Remains of the Day is so highly regarded, there’s no denying the brilliance of Ishiguro’s craft. It, however, didn’t quite resonate with me as deeply as I had hoped. For readers who enjoy a slower paced, beautifully written novel I would highly recommend. For those who, like me, prefer a bit more energy and emotional immediacy, it may feel slightly muted.
The novel’s introspective view, can at times feel relentless. I often found myself wishing for a change in tempo or a glimpse of life beyond Stevens’ version of events.
Ultimately, I appreciate why The Remains of the Day is so highly regarded, there’s no denying the brilliance of Ishiguro’s craft. It, however, didn’t quite resonate with me as deeply as I had hoped. For readers who enjoy a slower paced, beautifully written novel I would highly recommend. For those who, like me, prefer a bit more energy and emotional immediacy, it may feel slightly muted.