Question 7

Question 7 by Richard Flanagan begins in an unexpected setting—a love hotel nestled along Japan's Inland Sea. The narrative weaves across time and continents, ultimately culminating by a serene river in Tasmania. This compelling story delves into the complexities of the choices we make about love and the profound, often unforeseen, consequences that ripple outwards from those decisions.

The novel takes readers on a journey through a fascinating series of interconnected events, starting with the infamous affair between H. G. Wells and Rebecca West in the 1930s. As the plot unfurls, so does the era of nuclear physics, leading to the catastrophic moment when Flanagan's father, held as a slave labourer near Hiroshima, witnesses the atomic bomb's devastating impact. The narrative reaches an intense climax when a young Flanagan finds himself ensnared in a treacherous rapid on a wild Tasmanian river, grappled with the uncertainty of survival.

At its core, Question 7 is a deeply evocative homage to Flanagan's island home and his parents. It is a masterful blend of dreamlike sequences, historical events, literary references, and personal memories, creating a hypnotic tapestry that questions the fabric of reality. Flanagan poignantly explores the idea that reality is seldom constructed by realists and that our lives are often the product of stories passed down to us and the narratives we craft for ourselves.

This genre-defying novel is not just a chronological recount of events but rather a meditative exploration of existence and identity. Flanagan weaves together disparate threads of history and personal reflection, drawing readers into a rich, immersive experience. Each chapter adds depth and complexity, inviting readers to ponder the cyclical nature of life and the stories that shape who we are.

Richard Flanagan's stellar storytelling in Question 7 offers an intricately layered narrative that is as thought-provoking as it is beautifully written. It’s a testament to the enduring power of love and memory, and how our lives are inextricably linked by the choices we make and the legacies we inherit.