Europe through literature discussion

Our first contemporary read of 2023 is Equator by Miguel Sousa Tavares.

Apart from Valerie, Jax, Diane and Dianne, who voted for this title, everybody else is of course invited to also share their thoughts!

What made you vote for this novel? What are your thoughts about the plot? The presentation of the character(s)? The atmosphere?

I read this a few years ago, so will comment a bit later in the month.

My copy just arrived so I will be starting it this weekend.

Dianne wrote: "My copy just arrived so I will be starting it this weekend."

Have a good read and looking forward to your comment(s)!

I haven't purchased this yet, pending seeing some feedback here on this title. I am interested in it, just cautious.

Has anyone read it or completed > 50% and care to advise?

I need to catch up on this one. I've started it but haven't gotten to the 50% mark yet. It does look like something that will keep my attention though.

I thoroughly enjoyed it. The narrative tension gives it a mystery feel. The protagonist Luis is a handsome ladies man who is educated, cultured, and monied, thinks he’s a neck above his peers intellectually. He struts this intellect publicly and ends up with an appointment as the governor of São Tomé. There is only oppressive heat, no culture, no comforts, no peers. He is horrified and will be pitted against the men he called nobodies, the plantation administrators, as he tries to undo a way of life. He does a lot of things that gets him in trouble, but what is great is that we see his character evolve. The pretentious lawyers and businessman isn’t as bereft of morality as we think. Very good read.

Carol wrote: "I haven't purchased this yet, pending seeing some feedback here on this title. I am interested in it, just cautious.

Has anyone read it or completed > 50% and care to advise?"

See my comments. The author was educated as a lawyer but works as a journalist and writer. Apparently, he spent a lot of time researching this book. I think there might be a bit of the modern Portuguese male’s sensibilities in how he developed Luis as such a complex character.

Thanks to you both, Jax and Dianne! I'll chase a copy.

Orgeluse wrote: "Our first contemporary read of 2023 is Equator by Miguel Sousa Tavares.

Apart from Valerie, Jax, Diane and Dianne, who voted for this title, everybody else is of cour..."

I guess I didn’t answer some of the points Orgeluse posed, actually, except my comments about the protagonist. Tavares does an exceptional job constructing Lisbon Luis before he leaves for the island, which makes the contrast between his lives more impactful. The main characters are equally interesting, likable or threatening. The atmosphere is one of distrust and threat, but Luis will find beauty in the landscape and the connection he develops to a few of those who serve him. The plot is very well done in that it moves the story along and allows for authentic world building while also lending tension.