CITY OF BOHANE
I recently read the book City of Bohane and found it fascinating. Most stories set in a dystopian post-apocalypse future are pretty clear about the setting even if they are often vague about the cause of the apocalypse that led to the dystopia. This story is vague about both.
Set in an Ireland of 2053 in the fictional city of Bohane, the novel follows a character returning after being away for years. Events cause the ignition of a gang war which is seen through the eyes of several colorful and morally corrupt characters. The technology is dialed down (no cars or computers, only radios and trams) due to an unspecified catastrophe and the “punk” part of this futuristic world is on full display.
The book invents a TON of new slang for this future and presents a challenging read that’s worth it. This where the artistry for the book really shines. The author Kevin Barry creates a vibrant and filthy array of slang using a mixture of thieves cant, old Irish slang, and invented words. The phrases become as much a part of the world as the characters are.
If you’re looking for a play-by-numbers gang story, this isn’t it. Many of the usual events, fights and visits to brothels do happen, but the mood of the story takes precedence over adherence to a three-act structure, all plot threads being neatly tied up, or a climactic final showdown.
Even the viewpoint is unusual - a combination of narration and third person omniscience that works even as first person and third person are supposed to conflict with one another.
If you’re looking to be transported into a wholly different world, I highly recommend this book.
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