First published 1990
In this 1990 novel, Christopher Hope presents a protagonist navigating the complex social landscape of South Africa during a period of dramatic political change. The central character finds themselves caught between conflicting loyalties and identities as the country moves toward the end of apartheid. Hope uses the metaphor suggested by the title to examine themes of salvation, comfort, and transformation in a society undergoing fundamental shifts. The story explores how individuals seek solace and meaning during times of upheaval, whether through personal relationships, cultural traditions, or unexpected sources of redemption. The protagonist must confront difficult choices about their place in a changing world, leading to questions about identity, belonging, and the possibility of renewal. Hope's narrative captures the tension between hope and uncertainty that characterized this pivotal moment in South African history.
Genres: literary-fiction, historical-fiction, 20th-century, african-literature
Vibes: intimate, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: conflicting-loyalties, fish-out-of-water
Setting: South Africa
Period: 1990
262 pages · Paperback · Minerva