4 out of 4 stars
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The Clouds Still Hang by Patrick C Notchtree is a confessional biography or biographical memoir that explores the life and trials of the author, who has been given the name of Simon. The author makes a very important note about this not being an autobiography, perhaps because the author might have added some fictionalised elements in the story, but primarily because the names of the characters have been changed. This story is not for children, a fact that the author has consistently made clear as the story contains sexually explicit material from the very beginning. This story is perfect for adults who love reading books that expose the emotional exhibitionism of writers. While it is clearly not an autobiography, it reminds me of books like Prozac Nation and The Bell Jar, stories that explore the self with unabashed candour.
The story essentially covers a myriad of themes, exploring relationships, love, betrayal and much more. Simon suffers through a traumatic childhood simply because he is “different” from others. Some kids call him “Simple Simon”, while less euphemistic names are given to him. This is in part because his parents are not married. His father has served the country in the World War, and it is clear from his behaviour at home that the war affected him deeply. Another thing that influenced the protagonist was the fact that his mother was a broken woman who would begin crying very often. Watching his mother cry shattered little Simon, and he would often weep with her.
The story also delineates Simon’s complex relationship with an older boy and makes it clear that Simon had a conflict with his sexuality at a very young age. It deals with the trauma and quest for self-acceptance that has marred the protagonist of the story, and it contains not just sexually explicit material, but also a narrative of sexual violence.
In my opinion, left-leaning people who are conscious of their political orientation and are pro-LGBT would fall in love with this story, because it is heartbreakingly beautiful and personal, and explores the difficulties of being in the LGBT community as well as the inevitable hindrances that inhibit the prosperity of this community. The most beautiful thing about this story is how it deals with a social issue in a personal manner. The author has given his everything to this story and is completely vulnerable in the face of moral judgement by the reader. However, even conservative people who understand and respect the concept of human rights would love this story and would find themselves understanding the nuances of what it is to be in the LGBT community.
The writing style of the author is stunning, and the eloquence with which the narrative has been woven is quite commendable. For these reasons (and many more), I happily rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. I wish there was a higher rating because this book certainly deserves it.
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The Clouds Still Hang
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