Bitter Eden by Tatamkhulu Afrika

[sirinrob]

This novel is based on the author's own capture and experiences as a prisoner of war in Italy and Germany. The broad theme of the book is how men cope with living in prisoner camps and how they relate to each other.

 

The novel chronicles the experiences of three principal characters: Tom, Douglas and Danny. Tom and Douglas are captured by the Italians in North Africa and shipped to a prisoner of war camp in Italy. They strike up an unequal friendship, which has consequences later. At the camp Tom, who is an Afrikaans speaking South African, makes friends with Danny who is British. This friendship is low key to start with, especially since Tom has a dislike of as he puts it 'Poms'. A daily routine is established, which tom splits between Douglas and Danny. Eventually circumstances arise that end the friendship between Tom and Douglas. The result is that the friendship between Tom and Danny grows. The Germans take over the camp and move the inmates to a camp in Germany. Here the tension between tom and Douglas comes to the boil, with tragic consequences for Douglas. Eventually the inmates are liberated. Danny wants to maintain the friendship with Tom, which partially succeeds.

 

The full range of human emotions are presented in an uncompromising way. The way the relationship between the principal characters develops is keenly observed. There is tenderness and rawness in equal measure. This is a novel that will stay with me, as it's powerful and moving. highly recommended.

Edited February 22, 2010 by sirinrob