Ghost Wedding by David Park review a thought-provoking novel about the power of the past
Briefly

David Park's novel intricately layers time, juxtaposing present-day Belfast with a century-old narrative. The story follows Alex, entangled in wedding preparations, yearning to shed lingering connections from his past, and George, an architect grappling with memories of World War I while building a lake for the affluent Remington family. Both protagonists share the desire to move forward but are hindered by their histories. Through their lives, Park explores themes of legacy, conflict, and personal freedom against the backdrop of Belfast's evolving identity.
In David Park's latest novel, time blurs as past and present intertwine, reflecting the evolution of personal struggles within the backdrop of Northern Ireland's rich history.
Alex’s impatience with wedding planning symbolizes a broader desire to escape the pretenses of his past life, mirroring George’s struggle with his turbulent memories.
Park’s portrayal of characters reveals deep-seated conflicts that are shaped by the historical narrative of Belfast, underlining the weight of legacy in personal decisions.
The juxtaposition of Alex and George's experiences across time highlights how history influences individual lives, threading a continuous narrative through generations.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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