Flash by David Szalay (60 of 25)

 

Flash by David Szalay,  published in 2025, is David Szalay's sixth novel and winner of the Booker Prize. The story centers on István, a young man whose life is marked by a series of tumultuous events that shape his identity and relationships.  Struggling with social isolation, he becomes involved in a complex and inappropriate relationship with a married woman, which sets off a chain of events that lead to his emotional and psychological turmoil. 

As István navigates his teenage years, he experiences a sexual awakening that leads to juvenile detention after a violent incident involving the woman's husband. Following his release, he serves in the military and later finds himself in various menial jobs. Eventually, he rises to become a wealthy socialite in London, living among the elite. However, despite his financial success, István's personality remains largely unchanged, leading to conflicts within his new family and a sense of disconnection from those around him. 

The novel delves into profound questions about identity, masculinity, and the impact of unresolved trauma. Szalay employs a minimalist writing style, characterized by sparse dialogue and a detached narrative voice that mirrors István's emotional state. Critics have noted that this approach effectively immerses readers in the protagonist's alienation and internal struggles. 

"Flesh" has received mixed reviews, with some praising its lean prose and compelling storytelling, while others criticize the omission of significant life events from István's narrative. The novel's unique narrative style invites readers to engage deeply with the character's experiences, making it a thought-provoking exploration of modern masculinity and the complexities of human relationships. 

In summary, "Flesh" is a powerful exploration of a man's life shaped by trauma and the search for connection, set against the backdrop of contemporary society. Szalay's work challenges readers to reflect on the nature of existence and the forces that drive human behavior.

The style is sparse and austere, yet dramatic. More than what is said is what is unsaid. If you think of it, it is a very clever and very difficult way to write and to convey the story with all its nuances. 

Quiet, taciturn, his life is unravelled, through good and bad phases by events beyond his control. The apathy of modernity and the futility of the war on terror are brilliantly displayed, in minimalistic style. The good phase even includes a spell in the uber elite space of London.

It is quite unlike any other book I have read. A profound novel that follows the life of István, a Hungarian man, from adolescence to middle age, exploring themes of trauma, masculinity, and alienation.