In this article we will review Close Quarters by William Golding.
Book Plot
Close Quarters, the second volume of William Golding’s ‘To the Ends of the Earth’ trilogy, continues the maritime saga. In this novel, Edmund Talbot, having completed his journal from the previous volume, embarks on a more personal narrative during the voyage. The story unfolds aboard a decrepit warship becalmed halfway to Australia. The ship drifts in an ocean wilderness of heat and sea mists. Amid this surreal atmosphere, a ball is held, and passengers dance and flirt. However, beneath the festivities, thickets of weed cling to the hull, and the ship itself begins to unravel.
Close Quarters Rating : 3,81
Also book has 320 pages
Close Quarters Review
In this book, Edmund Talbot finishes his journal for his godfather and starts a more personal narrative for the rest of his journey. His writing style changes significantly now that he is no longer writing for his powerful patron, becoming more open and less formal. We start to see the real Edmund – a young man from a privileged background who has lived a sheltered life. Everything changes for him as he gets to know the ship’s officers and other passengers better. He experiences things that change him forever, including meeting a young woman who stays on his mind. There are personal conflicts, tragedies, and moments of both humor and darkness on the ship. This part of Talbot’s journey is crucial for his personal growth. I found this second book more enjoyable than the first, as Talbot starts to let go of his pretensions and matures into a man with real experiences and emotions. The other characters are diverse and engaging, and the story is full of action.
Check Suggested Books
Our Mission
At our book reviews website, our mission is to ignite and nurture a love for reading by providing insightful, honest, and diverse reviews that empower readers to discover new literary gems and make informed choices about their next read. We believe that books have the power to inspire, educate, and connect people from all walks of life, and our goal is to cultivate a vibrant community of bibliophiles who share their passion for literature and engage in meaningful discussions about the books that enrich their lives. Through our commitment to excellence, integrity, and inclusivity, we strive to be a trusted source of literary criticism and a valuable resource for readers seeking to explore the vast and captivating world of books.