So It Won't Go Away

So It Won't Go Away is a collection of stand alone, yet connected, chapters reflecting on events within the lives of Neil, his brother Rick, his sister Jane and their mother Colette. Whilst appearing to meander loosely, the book artfully takes the reader on a journey of discovery into the lives, thoughts and emotions of the characters. Small moments are important, as when Jane visits the washroom and imagines herself watching her father as a young man off to fight in the Second World War. She is able to thank him for his sacrifice for "a better life" (23), which also becomes a theme within the stories of other family members. Ultimately, they recognize that the better life their father fought for, and their parents moved to western Canada for, is the life they have, in Edmonton and the Okanagan. Lent develops his characters gently and touchingly and often through awareness or expressions of love for one another. Neil's observation of his mother's energy and youthfulness is delightful: "[...] he felt sometimes [...] that she was returning at the end of her life to the little girl she'd started out as, looking back at him with so much hope and innocence, so much good will and love" (46). Colette's passion for her roots in Ireland and yet her acceptance and love of her home in Edmonton feels contrarily realistic and true. Sexual abuse is treated in a startling and sensitive manner. There is no foreshadowing of this event and there is no emotional drama. Yet there is flashback, realization, healing and self-actualization, all significant occurrences in Neil's life, allowing him to relax, sleep well and live more deeply than before. The breakdown of Neil's relationship, his sadness and ultimate surprise at his feelings of unconditional love for Shelley are wonderful to witness: "I never missed you more than today [...] I flat out wanted something for you [...] because I knew what it'd mean to you" (262). Lent demonstrates his ability to explore within the rich and confusing depths of emotion. The last chapter ends without closure and with the question "will you be out there?" (262), suggesting new insights and possibilities for Neil's future. Lent uses language skillfully and artistically and includes a surprising stream of consciousness passage that ends with the title of the book (226). Politics, literature, music and art are referred to throughout the work. Each snippet of thought or story in So It Won't Go Away, taken from childhood or present day, is vibrant with meaning and lingers with the reader inviting further investigation, to gain greater appreciation and understanding of the characters and thus of life. This is a book of rich text to be read over again for the reader to discover deeper wisdom and beauty. As the seasons in the reader's life change, so may insights and appreciation continue to glimmer or shine within this masterly work.

A brilliant book that lyrically evokes the scenery of Canada's Okanagan, as well as France. By turns humourous, political, and deeply affecting.