Granta 78: Bad Company : Book Review

"Granta 78: Bad Company," edited by Ian Jack, is a captivating collection of essays, stories, and poems that delve into the theme of "bad company" in its various forms. The contributors offer profound insights into the dark side of human nature and the consequences that can arise from associating with the wrong crowd.

The book commences with a thought-provoking essay by Tim Adams, who contemplates the notion of bad company and how it molds one's life. Adams skillfully elucidates the allure and peril of falling into toxic relationships or entangling oneself with destructive social groups.

The anthology includes compelling personal narratives such as Maria Alyokhina's poignant account of her time in a Russian prison as a member of the punk band Pussy Riot. Alyokhina's story effectively underscores the oppressive impact of bad company within a political context, revealing the harsh consequences faced by those who dare to challenge authority.

Moreover, the collection features short stories by esteemed writers Tessa Hadley and Philip Hensher, who approach the theme of bad company with nuanced perspectives. Hadley's tale explores the intricate dynamics within a family and the enduring influence of past relationships, while Hensher delves into the repercussions of toxic friendships.

In addition to these gripping narratives, "Granta 78: Bad Company" also showcases the powerful poetry of Jo Shapcott and David Harsent. Their verses artfully capture the essence of bad company, employing haunting imagery and poignant observations on the intricacies of the human condition.

What are readers saying?

"Granta 78: Bad Company," edited by Ian Jack, is a compilation of short stories and essays that delve into the theme of human connections and the impact they have on our lives. Reviews for the book have been diverse, with some readers commending its thought-provoking content and diverse range of perspectives, while others found certain pieces lacking in depth or engagement.

Reviewers generally agree that the collection offers an intriguing exploration of complex relationships. Many readers appreciate the diversity of voices presented in the book, which provides a fresh and eclectic mix of viewpoints. Moreover, the depth and authenticity with which different types of connections, such as friendships, family dynamics, and romantic relationships, are examined has been received positively.

However, a few reviewers believe that certain stories lack the necessary depth to fully engage readers. These readers find the writing style of a few pieces to be unfulfilling, which hampers their overall enjoyment of the collection. Additionally, there are a few instances where the themes being explored seem repetitive or clichéd.

Despite these criticisms, many readers praise the editor, Ian Jack, for his skillful curation of the collection. They appreciate his ability to bring together a diverse range of voices and perspectives, and find the thematic coherence of the book to be a strong point. Jack provides readers with a well-rounded and cohesive exploration of the complexities of human relationships.

In summary, "Granta 78: Bad Company," edited by Ian Jack, offers a mixed reading experience. While many readers appreciate the thought-provoking content and diverse perspectives, others find certain stories lacking depth. However, overall, it is acknowledged that Jack has curated a collection that delves into the complexities of human connections and presents a cohesive examination of various relationships.

Granta78 LiteraryMagazine NewWriting