Ford Madox Ford (1873–1939)

The author gives fair warning at the start of the novel that the story will be told from his view and in a rambling conversational style. As a result, this unusual approach takes some getting used to, but perseverance pays off as the last two thirds of the book prove a good read. This book deals with characters that are less than appealing but possibly reflect the weaknesses of the everyman and due to unfortunate luck circumstances seem to place them all where their weaknesses of character are brought to the fore.
This scenario however proves to be the ideal vehicle for the story to be a way of philosophising on relationships and in particular marriage. The book while not a page turner by any means, would be well worth a re-read to better consider the themes covered.… (more)

For a book widely regarded as a classic, it just didn't work for me. Though not long, it went on too long for my taste. All of major characters are distasteful to a greater or lesser extent and the story (about two couples, one English, one American, and their uh, relationships on the eve of World War One) is largely tiresome. Worst of all, Ford's narrator is supposed to be American. Unfortunately, the narration is absolutely chock full of English idioms and English usage, making the narrator hard to buy.… (more)

2023: Having given up on this four years ago, I had to try it again as it is a set text on a course I am doing, and I am glad I did. It was a little frustrating at the beginning - things remain quite opaque for a while and the narration feels slow - but then the leisurely pace grew on me. I thought the bulk of the book was very enjoyable, as you appreciate the different perspectives and revisiting of key moments. However, towards the end it all started to feel rather tawdry and I was glad to finish.

It is filled with people who would have really befitted from some sex education at school.

2019: Quitting at page 30. I'm finding it hard to get into and I don't have the energy. Not a lot is happening and yet great significance is seemingly attached to everything.… (more)