Mar 7 • 03:02 UTC 🇦🇷 Argentina La Nacion (ES)

Review: Every Night at Nine, by Julian Gloag

A review of Julian Gloag's novel 'Cada noche a las nueve', comparing its themes to those of Ian McEwan's 'Jardín de cemento'.

The article reviews Julian Gloag's 1963 novel 'Cada noche a las nueve', which tells the story of seven siblings who, after unexpectedly losing their mother, bury her in the garden to avoid being sent to an orphanage. This stark decision leads them to maintain a facade of normalcy, attending school and conducting everyday activities to escape suspicion. The narrative delves into themes of loss, familial bonds, and the psychological effects of their drastic actions.

The review draws parallels between Gloag's novel and Ian McEwan's 1978 work 'Jardín de cemento', highlighting how both literature pieces explore the darkness surrounding childhood and the moral dilemmas that arise in traumatic circumstances. While McEwan's story unfolds with a more urban setting where siblings bury their mother in the basement, Gloag creates a scenario where the siblings attempt to coexist with their grave secret outdoors. This distinctiveness emphasizes the internal and external conflicts faced by the characters as they navigate their new reality.

Additionally, the review touches on Gloag's unique writing style and the gothic undertones that pervade the book, creating an atmosphere of suspense. It hints at Gloag's broader literary contributions, noting his enduring influence even after his passing in 2023. The combination of suspense, gothic elements, and a profound exploration of childhood trauma makes 'Cada noche a las nueve' a noteworthy piece worthy of discussion in the context of post-war literature.

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