“If it no go so, it go near so. —Jamaican proverb”
“Killing don’t need no reason. This is ghetto. Reason is for rich people. We have madness.”
“People who say they don’t have a choice just too coward to choose.”
Winner of the 2015 Booker Prize, A Brief History of Seven Killings dives into the fictionalized account of the assassination attempt on Bob Marley, exploring deep into Jamaica's political landscape throughout the 1970s and beyond. The narrative unfolds with a cinematic flair, exploring a range of gripping themes—from gang dynamics and drug trade to the involvement of journalists and CIA agents, and the crack wars of the 1980s. While the book offers substantial insights into Jamaican history, it assumes a certain familiarity with the context, which could pose a challenge for readers new to this setting. The use of Jamaican dialect adds authenticity but may require some adjustment in reading style.
The author's writing is both clever and experimental, showcasing a vast array of characters as one of its standout features. Despite the initial daunting prospect of multiple perspectives, each character possesses a distinct voice that ultimately aids in navigating the narrative. However, the novel's length and occasional slow pacing proved to be a hurdle, with some sections feeling less impactful to the overall plot. Despite these challenges, completing the book left a sense of fulfillment, albeit with a touch of melancholy at parting ways with a long-time literary companion.
Overall, A Brief History of Seven Killings is a challenging yet rewarding journey, providing deep insights that linger well beyond the closing chapter.
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