A Suitable Book, 01 Sep 2008
If ever a book could bring to life another culture in another time, this is it. Loosely based on the search for the eponymous suitable boy for Lata, the spirited daughter of Mrs Rupa Mehra, the joy of this book is its wonderful characters and locations and, most of all, a sense of life and living in post-partition India.

This is a book in which to luxuriate; to ease yourself into the lives of the characters with whom you will journey over the 1400 pages of exquisite prose. The only reason to put this book down is to give your arms a rest!

I would unreservedly recommend this as my favourite book of the 2nd half of the 20th century. A book for lazy afternoons and long summer evenings. Spellbinding.

Needlessly long with non directional plot, 12 Aug 2008
This review will probably go against the grain but I bought this book on the premise that it was an award winning, must read and had not heard a bad thing said about the book. Being a bit of a book worm it didn't take as long to read as I initially thought it would, but I did find the story was more long winded than required. There was no discernable plot as the story just meandered through various sub plots that never quite ended satisfactorily. The abrupt ending did an injustice to the marathon reading effort it takes to work your way through it. Nevertheless, the amusing characters and rich use of language were enjoyable though overall I feel this was a pointless story with no plot development which I can't bring myself to recommend to anyone else.

GREAT!, 03 Aug 2008
This book was amazing! The start was a little slow but once you get into it and get familiar with the characters, you really start to enjoy it. I did skip a few pages here and there, (probably 5-10 in total) but it didnt take anything away from the story. Finishing the entire book feels like such an accomplishment but you begin to miss the characters and wish the book was longer.

A Suitable Boy, 05 Jul 2008
I found 'A Suitable Boy' to be a slow starter, but once you get going you'll be hooked. I found the first 300 hundred, or so, pages quite frustrating as I was waiting for something to happen, but then I settled into the story and realised that this was a meandering tale of family dynamics and the bonds of society. Once you realise that this book will not have huge shocks and intrigue the whole way through, but rather the gentle telling of lives and how they are intertwined with the odd moment of suspense or excitement, then you will become completely engrossed and compelled to return to this book at every given moment. The writing isn't stunningly beautiful (like In Arundhati Roys 'God Of Small Things', which I highly recommend if you enjoyed this) , but it's simplicity keeps you hooked to the story told, which may be more important in a book of this length. This is a big book and it will take some time to get through, but every moment is worthwhile and the journey is more important than the ending, so take your time and enjoy it. Well worth a read.

Pure Genius, 16 Apr 2008
A sublimely written book - spirited, nuanced characters revealing universal human truths and traits interacting gloriously in a specific and fascinating place and time.

Michael plays second violin in an up-and-coming Maggiore Quartet, lives on the north side of Hyde Park, takes early morning dips in the Serpentine, has a French girlfriend named Virginie. But his mind is constantly drawn to his first and only love, Julia, whom he knew in Vienna many years earlier. When he catches sight of Julia on a London bus, he cannot help but pursue her. Vikram Seth's new novel is a gently-paced, multi-layered work, proceeding in short sections which flit from Michael's ongoing search for Julia back to his childhood as a Rochdale butcher's son, his early training and breakdown in Vienna under the tyrannical Carl Kall, and the emotional history of his quartet; while Michael's discovery of a Beethoven trio rewritten as a string quintet acts as a motif for Michael's pursuit of the lost Julia: can Michael recapture the magic of the past, like Beethoven, who deafly transfigured what he so many years earlier had hearingly composed? Seth is quite brilliant at conveying the intense and complex interplay of chamber musicians, in rehearsal and performance (an odd, obsessed, introspective, separatist breed), and manages the near-impossible--to write in 1999 about Art and Love without embarrassment. --Alan Stewart

A Suitable Book, 01 Sep 2008
If ever a book could bring to life another culture in another time, this is it. Loosely based on the search for the eponymous suitable boy for Lata, the spirited daughter of Mrs Rupa Mehra, the joy of this book is its wonderful characters and locations and, most of all, a sense of life and living in post-partition India.

This is a book in which to luxuriate; to ease yourself into the lives of the characters with whom you will journey over the 1400 pages of exquisite prose. The only reason to put this book down is to give your arms a rest!

I would unreservedly recommend this as my favourite book of the 2nd half of the 20th century. A book for lazy afternoons and long summer evenings. Spellbinding.

Needlessly long with non directional plot, 12 Aug 2008
This review will probably go against the grain but I bought this book on the premise that it was an award winning, must read and had not heard a bad thing said about the book. Being a bit of a book worm it didn't take as long to read as I initially thought it would, but I did find the story was more long winded than required. There was no discernable plot as the story just meandered through various sub plots that never quite ended satisfactorily. The abrupt ending did an injustice to the marathon reading effort it takes to work your way through it. Nevertheless, the amusing characters and rich use of language were enjoyable though overall I feel this was a pointless story with no plot development which I can't bring myself to recommend to anyone else.

GREAT!, 03 Aug 2008
This book was amazing! The start was a little slow but once you get into it and get familiar with the characters, you really start to enjoy it. I did skip a few pages here and there, (probably 5-10 in total) but it didnt take anything away from the story. Finishing the entire book feels like such an accomplishment but you begin to miss the characters and wish the book was longer.

A Suitable Boy, 05 Jul 2008
I found 'A Suitable Boy' to be a slow starter, but once you get going you'll be hooked. I found the first 300 hundred, or so, pages quite frustrating as I was waiting for something to happen, but then I settled into the story and realised that this was a meandering tale of family dynamics and the bonds of society. Once you realise that this book will not have huge shocks and intrigue the whole way through, but rather the gentle telling of lives and how they are intertwined with the odd moment of suspense or excitement, then you will become completely engrossed and compelled to return to this book at every given moment. The writing isn't stunningly beautiful (like In Arundhati Roys 'God Of Small Things', which I highly recommend if you enjoyed this) , but it's simplicity keeps you hooked to the story told, which may be more important in a book of this length. This is a big book and it will take some time to get through, but every moment is worthwhile and the journey is more important than the ending, so take your time and enjoy it. Well worth a read.

Pure Genius, 16 Apr 2008
A sublimely written book - spirited, nuanced characters revealing universal human truths and traits interacting gloriously in a specific and fascinating place and time.



"Music is dearer to me even than speech" , 09 Oct 2008
... explains Vikram Seth in the "Author's note" to this engrossing novel. His intimate connection to music and the process of bringing it to life is palpable throughout the book. The story closely follows the ups and downs in the life of violinist Michael Holme and, to a lesser degree, that of the mysterious pianist Julia McNicholl. What makes the story move far beyond a romantic novel is Seth's ability to convey the deep significance of chamber music by no lesser composers than Bach, Beethoven, Mozart and Schubert for his characters' psyche and everyday lives. You don't have to be knowledgeable about the music to feel absorbed by this rich, complex and intimate love story. *)

The story, told through Michael's eyes, is mostly set in north London, where he has found refuge after fleeing Vienna, the town of his professional training. Ten years have passed but his musings keep returning to events in Vienna: self-doubts in his talent as a soloist, amplified by the demands of an exacting, overbearing teacher, had resulted in a complete breakdown. His abrupt departure left Julia, his love, music partner and muse, without a word of explanation or good bye. As he slowly recovered, he tried to reconnect with her, wrote, contacted her father, only to meet a wall of silence. Seth's depiction of Michael's continuing emotional immaturity, his increasing despair at having lost what he now recognizes as his great love reveals the fragility of a character where musical brilliance and human weaknesses are interdependent. His solo career seemingly over, Michael joins the Maggiore Quartet as second violin. While in many ways a close knit group - the "family" gives his life the needed structure and support - it also is the source of inter-personal rivalries. The tensions, creative or destructive, between the quartet members are perceptively explored and the reader can appreciate the complex personalities of highly creative and sensitive virtuosi, whose captivating performances we tend to take for granted. Nonetheless, playing together, following the structural and harmonious intricacies of each composition, whether as duo, trio or quartet, overcomes any such impediments and leads to a level of intimacy and understanding that goes beyond speech. Getting into Michael's head with great skill, Seth creates a complex but believable character whose actions are often more the result of deeply felt emotions than rational analysis. To complement his protagonist's musings on his chamber musician colleagues and friends, and, of course, Julia, Seth turns to extensive passages of direct dialogue, thus energizing the narrative flow.

Michael's precious violin, an early 18th century Tononi, occupies one of the central themes in the narrative. It is another love affair of sorts and one he cannot abandon without losing his identity. Seth, well known also as a poet, finds the right lyrical tone when describing Michael's interaction with his violin, complementing the moods created by the music he plays or listens to. The violin, however, is only a long term loan from his violinist neighbour and music teacher in his home town in Northern England. She "discovered" and nurtured his talent from an early age and he keeps returning to her regularly for companionship and solace. Michael's family, while sympathetic, had no resources to support his ambitions. Seth very delicately raises the issues of family tensions, class and education as he contrasts Michael's upbringing with that of Julia, privileged daughter of an Oxford professor. Despite their differences, music can bridge any differences and misunderstandings between them.

It wouldn't be much of a story, if the former lovers were not to meet again... The romantic settings in Vienna and Venice add a beautiful and vivid backdrop to the concert tour by the Quartet. Those who have read the various reviews and book blurbs will no doubt know the main elements of the plot, unfortunately. I was cautioned by a friend not to read those and consequently explored the slow revelation of key events and secrets carried, with great pleasure. Seth has a wonderful sensitive touch in his exploration of the challenges faced by Michael and, in particular, Julia. This gives special depth to the story and take it beyond what one could have expected. [Friederike Knabe]

*) It is worthwhile exploring the music while reading or listening to it later on the companion CD An Equal Music (CD).


Moving and fast moving, 22 Jul 2008
An easy book to read as the plot flies along, the characters are very well drawn, the dialogue is good and the sense of yearning from the main protagonist is well drawn.

A love affair that ended abruptly without as the Americans say 'closure'. Both parties remain hurt, still in love with each other but dealing with the extenuating circumstances that crash into everyone's lives and pull them off in different directions. For the main protagonist the book relates the story of a crisis year in his life both in his professional life as a muscian and his love life.

It is extremely well written and very moving at the end as you feel for poor Michael who struggles to withstand the neverending pounding that just being alive can give you. Also if you love classical music the extra dimension this brings is a joy. Not quite great literature but in that territory.

Not for everyone - but definitely for me, 03 Jul 2008
There are two kinds of people in the world: those who tend to fall in love Hollywood-style (experiencing head over heels, all-consuming, passionate, exclusive, obsessive love - often illogical and regardless of whether that love is reciprocated) and those who do not.

Michael Holme, the main character and the narrator of Seth's novel, falls into the former category. If you do too, the chances are that you'll empathise with him. If you fall into the latter category and believe that the whole idea of "falling in love" is severely overrated or even simply fictitious, I suspect you'll agree with those reviewers who describe him as a whiner, as self-centred, as melodramatic.

Perhaps Michael Holme is all of those things, but I understand exactly where he's coming from; this, to me, makes Seth's protagonist (with all his flaws) both credible and human. Throughout the book, Seth's beautifully written prose really made me feel Michael's joy and his pain. I smiled and cried over this book in the works' canteen - but I was so gripped that not reading at lunchtime just wasn't an option.

I felt the book was a little slow to get started but I was soon under its spell. This is a story about loss and love of many kinds and for different people, things and places. The plot was believable, I loved the music within it and I could sympathise with the two main characters. It would have been easy for the author to have written a trite ending to the story or a tragic end for the character, but I was relieved that he did neither. I adored this novel. The characters and story resonated as readily with me as my instrument does with Bach's Cello Suites.


A good book with good moments, 31 May 2008
I'm never one for a stereotypical love story, preferring more challenging takes on the subject (The Time Traveller's Wife for example), and I'm pleased to say that this book was one of of those more challenging attempts. What is excellent about this book are the smooth, almost imperceptible transitions between the love side of the story and the musical side of the story. Being from a musical background, and in fact working in one of the music shops mentioned in the book, I found the first half of the book fascinating. The third quarter didn't grip me as much, but by the end of the book, I couldn't wait to see how everything would end. I would recommend reading this book - the story is excellent, but its real strength comes in stirring up genuine emotions inside you.

An excellent read, 08 Jul 2007
Perhaps I don't read enough, but I found this book to be an excellent read. I thought it caught the dynamics between a small group of musicians very well and I do not hesitate to recommend it.

A Suitable Book, 01 Sep 2008
If ever a book could bring to life another culture in another time, this is it. Loosely based on the search for the eponymous suitable boy for Lata, the spirited daughter of Mrs Rupa Mehra, the joy of this book is its wonderful characters and locations and, most of all, a sense of life and living in post-partition India.

This is a book in which to luxuriate; to ease yourself into the lives of the characters with whom you will journey over the 1400 pages of exquisite prose. The only reason to put this book down is to give your arms a rest!

I would unreservedly recommend this as my favourite book of the 2nd half of the 20th century. A book for lazy afternoons and long summer evenings. Spellbinding.

Needlessly long with non directional plot, 12 Aug 2008
This review will probably go against the grain but I bought this book on the premise that it was an award winning, must read and had not heard a bad thing said about the book. Being a bit of a book worm it didn't take as long to read as I initially thought it would, but I did find the story was more long winded than required. There was no discernable plot as the story just meandered through various sub plots that never quite ended satisfactorily. The abrupt ending did an injustice to the marathon reading effort it takes to work your way through it. Nevertheless, the amusing characters and rich use of language were enjoyable though overall I feel this was a pointless story with no plot development which I can't bring myself to recommend to anyone else.

GREAT!, 03 Aug 2008
This book was amazing! The start was a little slow but once you get into it and get familiar with the characters, you really start to enjoy it. I did skip a few pages here and there, (probably 5-10 in total) but it didnt take anything away from the story. Finishing the entire book feels like such an accomplishment but you begin to miss the characters and wish the book was longer.

A Suitable Boy, 05 Jul 2008
I found 'A Suitable Boy' to be a slow starter, but once you get going you'll be hooked. I found the first 300 hundred, or so, pages quite frustrating as I was waiting for something to happen, but then I settled into the story and realised that this was a meandering tale of family dynamics and the bonds of society. Once you realise that this book will not have huge shocks and intrigue the whole way through, but rather the gentle telling of lives and how they are intertwined with the odd moment of suspense or excitement, then you will become completely engrossed and compelled to return to this book at every given moment. The writing isn't stunningly beautiful (like In Arundhati Roys 'God Of Small Things', which I highly recommend if you enjoyed this) , but it's simplicity keeps you hooked to the story told, which may be more important in a book of this length. This is a big book and it will take some time to get through, but every moment is worthwhile and the journey is more important than the ending, so take your time and enjoy it. Well worth a read.

Pure Genius, 16 Apr 2008
A sublimely written book - spirited, nuanced characters revealing universal human truths and traits interacting gloriously in a specific and fascinating place and time.



"Music is dearer to me even than speech" , 09 Oct 2008
... explains Vikram Seth in the "Author's note" to this engrossing novel. His intimate connection to music and the process of bringing it to life is palpable throughout the book. The story closely follows the ups and downs in the life of violinist Michael Holme and, to a lesser degree, that of the mysterious pianist Julia McNicholl. What makes the story move far beyond a romantic novel is Seth's ability to convey the deep significance of chamber music by no lesser composers than Bach, Beethoven, Mozart and Schubert for his characters' psyche and everyday lives. You don't have to be knowledgeable about the music to feel absorbed by this rich, complex and intimate love story. *)

The story, told through Michael's eyes, is mostly set in north London, where he has found refuge after fleeing Vienna, the town of his professional training. Ten years have passed but his musings keep returning to events in Vienna: self-doubts in his talent as a soloist, amplified by the demands of an exacting, overbearing teacher, had resulted in a complete breakdown. His abrupt departure left Julia, his love, music partner and muse, without a word of explanation or good bye. As he slowly recovered, he tried to reconnect with her, wrote, contacted her father, only to meet a wall of silence. Seth's depiction of Michael's continuing emotional immaturity, his increasing despair at having lost what he now recognizes as his great love reveals the fragility of a character where musical brilliance and human weaknesses are interdependent. His solo career seemingly over, Michael joins the Maggiore Quartet as second violin. While in many ways a close knit group - the "family" gives his life the needed structure and support - it also is the source of inter-personal rivalries. The tensions, creative or destructive, between the quartet members are perceptively explored and the reader can appreciate the complex personalities of highly creative and sensitive virtuosi, whose captivating performances we tend to take for granted. Nonetheless, playing together, following the structural and harmonious intricacies of each composition, whether as duo, trio or quartet, overcomes any such impediments and leads to a level of intimacy and understanding that goes beyond speech. Getting into Michael's head with great skill, Seth creates a complex but believable character whose actions are often more the result of deeply felt emotions than rational analysis. To complement his protagonist's musings on his chamber musician colleagues and friends, and, of course, Julia, Seth turns to extensive passages of direct dialogue, thus energizing the narrative flow.

Michael's precious violin, an early 18th century Tononi, occupies one of the central themes in the narrative. It is another love affair of sorts and one he cannot abandon without losing his identity. Seth, well known also as a poet, finds the right lyrical tone when describing Michael's interaction with his violin, complementing the moods created by the music he plays or listens to. The violin, however, is only a long term loan from his violinist neighbour and music teacher in his home town in Northern England. She "discovered" and nurtured his talent from an early age and he keeps returning to her regularly for companionship and solace. Michael's family, while sympathetic, had no resources to support his ambitions. Seth very delicately raises the issues of family tensions, class and education as he contrasts Michael's upbringing with that of Julia, privileged daughter of an Oxford professor. Despite their differences, music can bridge any differences and misunderstandings between them.

It wouldn't be much of a story, if the former lovers were not to meet again... The romantic settings in Vienna and Venice add a beautiful and vivid backdrop to the concert tour by the Quartet. Those who have read the various reviews and book blurbs will no doubt know the main elements of the plot, unfortunately. I was cautioned by a friend not to read those and consequently explored the slow revelation of key events and secrets carried, with great pleasure. Seth has a wonderful sensitive touch in his exploration of the challenges faced by Michael and, in particular, Julia. This gives special depth to the story and take it beyond what one could have expected. [Friederike Knabe]

*) It is worthwhile exploring the music while reading or listening to it later on the companion CD An Equal Music (CD).


Moving and fast moving, 22 Jul 2008
An easy book to read as the plot flies along, the characters are very well drawn, the dialogue is good and the sense of yearning from the main protagonist is well drawn.

A love affair that ended abruptly without as the Americans say 'closure'. Both parties remain hurt, still in love with each other but dealing with the extenuating circumstances that crash into everyone's lives and pull them off in different directions. For the main protagonist the book relates the story of a crisis year in his life both in his professional life as a muscian and his love life.

It is extremely well written and very moving at the end as you feel for poor Michael who struggles to withstand the neverending pounding that just being alive can give you. Also if you love classical music the extra dimension this brings is a joy. Not quite great literature but in that territory.

Not for everyone - but definitely for me, 03 Jul 2008
There are two kinds of people in the world: those who tend to fall in love Hollywood-style (experiencing head over heels, all-consuming, passionate, exclusive, obsessive love - often illogical and regardless of whether that love is reciprocated) and those who do not.

Michael Holme, the main character and the narrator of Seth's novel, falls into the former category. If you do too, the chances are that you'll empathise with him. If you fall into the latter category and believe that the whole idea of "falling in love" is severely overrated or even simply fictitious, I suspect you'll agree with those reviewers who describe him as a whiner, as self-centred, as melodramatic.

Perhaps Michael Holme is all of those things, but I understand exactly where he's coming from; this, to me, makes Seth's protagonist (with all his flaws) both credible and human. Throughout the book, Seth's beautifully written prose really made me feel Michael's joy and his pain. I smiled and cried over this book in the works' canteen - but I was so gripped that not reading at lunchtime just wasn't an option.

I felt the book was a little slow to get started but I was soon under its spell. This is a story about loss and love of many kinds and for different people, things and places. The plot was believable, I loved the music within it and I could sympathise with the two main characters. It would have been easy for the author to have written a trite ending to the story or a tragic end for the character, but I was relieved that he did neither. I adored this novel. The characters and story resonated as readily with me as my instrument does with Bach's Cello Suites.


A good book with good moments, 31 May 2008
I'm never one for a stereotypical love story, preferring more challenging takes on the subject (The Time Traveller's Wife for example), and I'm pleased to say that this book was one of of those more challenging attempts. What is excellent about this book are the smooth, almost imperceptible transitions between the love side of the story and the musical side of the story. Being from a musical background, and in fact working in one of the music shops mentioned in the book, I found the first half of the book fascinating. The third quarter didn't grip me as much, but by the end of the book, I couldn't wait to see how everything would end. I would recommend reading this book - the story is excellent, but its real strength comes in stirring up genuine emotions inside you.

An excellent read, 08 Jul 2007
Perhaps I don't read enough, but I found this book to be an excellent read. I thought it caught the dynamics between a small group of musicians very well and I do not hesitate to recommend it.

A Suitable Book, 01 Sep 2008
If ever a book could bring to life another culture in another time, this is it. Loosely based on the search for the eponymous suitable boy for Lata, the spirited daughter of Mrs Rupa Mehra, the joy of this book is its wonderful characters and locations and, most of all, a sense of life and living in post-partition India.

This is a book in which to luxuriate; to ease yourself into the lives of the characters with whom you will journey over the 1400 pages of exquisite prose. The only reason to put this book down is to give your arms a rest!

I would unreservedly recommend this as my favourite book of the 2nd half of the 20th century. A book for lazy afternoons and long summer evenings. Spellbinding.

Needlessly long with non directional plot, 12 Aug 2008
This review will probably go against the grain but I bought this book on the premise that it was an award winning, must read and had not heard a bad thing said about the book. Being a bit of a book worm it didn't take as long to read as I initially thought it would, but I did find the story was more long winded than required. There was no discernable plot as the story just meandered through various sub plots that never quite ended satisfactorily. The abrupt ending did an injustice to the marathon reading effort it takes to work your way through it. Nevertheless, the amusing characters and rich use of language were enjoyable though overall I feel this was a pointless story with no plot development which I can't bring myself to recommend to anyone else.

GREAT!, 03 Aug 2008
This book was amazing! The start was a little slow but once you get into it and get familiar with the characters, you really start to enjoy it. I did skip a few pages here and there, (probably 5-10 in total) but it didnt take anything away from the story. Finishing the entire book feels like such an accomplishment but you begin to miss the characters and wish the book was longer.

A Suitable Boy, 05 Jul 2008
I found 'A Suitable Boy' to be a slow starter, but once you get going you'll be hooked. I found the first 300 hundred, or so, pages quite frustrating as I was waiting for something to happen, but then I settled into the story and realised that this was a meandering tale of family dynamics and the bonds of society. Once you realise that this book will not have huge shocks and intrigue the whole way through, but rather the gentle telling of lives and how they are intertwined with the odd moment of suspense or excitement, then you will become completely engrossed and compelled to return to this book at every given moment. The writing isn't stunningly beautiful (like In Arundhati Roys 'God Of Small Things', which I highly recommend if you enjoyed this) , but it's simplicity keeps you hooked to the story told, which may be more important in a book of this length. This is a big book and it will take some time to get through, but every moment is worthwhile and the journey is more important than the ending, so take your time and enjoy it. Well worth a read.

Pure Genius, 16 Apr 2008
A sublimely written book - spirited, nuanced characters revealing universal human truths and traits interacting gloriously in a specific and fascinating place and time.

A Suitable Book, 01 Sep 2008
If ever a book could bring to life another culture in another time, this is it. Loosely based on the search for the eponymous suitable boy for Lata, the spirited daughter of Mrs Rupa Mehra, the joy of this book is its wonderful characters and locations and, most of all, a sense of life and living in post-partition India.

This is a book in which to luxuriate; to ease yourself into the lives of the characters with whom you will journey over the 1400 pages of exquisite prose. The only reason to put this book down is to give your arms a rest!

I would unreservedly recommend this as my favourite book of the 2nd half of the 20th century. A book for lazy afternoons and long summer evenings. Spellbinding.

Needlessly long with non directional plot, 12 Aug 2008
This review will probably go against the grain but I bought this book on the premise that it was an award winning, must read and had not heard a bad thing said about the book. Being a bit of a book worm it didn't take as long to read as I initially thought it would, but I did find the story was more long winded than required. There was no discernable plot as the story just meandered through various sub plots that never quite ended satisfactorily. The abrupt ending did an injustice to the marathon reading effort it takes to work your way through it. Nevertheless, the amusing characters and rich use of language were enjoyable though overall I feel this was a pointless story with no plot development which I can't bring myself to recommend to anyone else.

GREAT!, 03 Aug 2008
This book was amazing! The start was a little slow but once you get into it and get familiar with the characters, you really start to enjoy it. I did skip a few pages here and there, (probably 5-10 in total) but it didnt take anything away from the story. Finishing the entire book feels like such an accomplishment but you begin to miss the characters and wish the book was longer.

A Suitable Boy, 05 Jul 2008
I found 'A Suitable Boy' to be a slow starter, but once you get going you'll be hooked. I found the first 300 hundred, or so, pages quite frustrating as I was waiting for something to happen, but then I settled into the story and realised that this was a meandering tale of family dynamics and the bonds of society. Once you realise that this book will not have huge shocks and intrigue the whole way through, but rather the gentle telling of lives and how they are intertwined with the odd moment of suspense or excitement, then you will become completely engrossed and compelled to return to this book at every given moment. The writing isn't stunningly beautiful (like In Arundhati Roys 'God Of Small Things', which I highly recommend if you enjoyed this) , but it's simplicity keeps you hooked to the story told, which may be more important in a book of this length. This is a big book and it will take some time to get through, but every moment is worthwhile and the journey is more important than the ending, so take your time and enjoy it. Well worth a read.

Pure Genius, 16 Apr 2008
A sublimely written book - spirited, nuanced characters revealing universal human truths and traits interacting gloriously in a specific and fascinating place and time.



"Music is dearer to me even than speech" , 09 Oct 2008
... explains Vikram Seth in the "Author's note" to this engrossing novel. His intimate connection to music and the process of bringing it to life is palpable throughout the book. The story closely follows the ups and downs in the life of violinist Michael Holme and, to a lesser degree, that of the mysterious pianist Julia McNicholl. What makes the story move far beyond a romantic novel is Seth's ability to convey the deep significance of chamber music by no lesser composers than Bach, Beethoven, Mozart and Schubert for his characters' psyche and everyday lives. You don't have to be knowledgeable about the music to feel absorbed by this rich, complex and intimate love story. *)

The story, told through Michael's eyes, is mostly set in north London, where he has found refuge after fleeing Vienna, the town of his professional training. Ten years have passed but his musings keep returning to events in Vienna: self-doubts in his talent as a soloist, amplified by the demands of an exacting, overbearing teacher, had resulted in a complete breakdown. His abrupt departure left Julia, his love, music partner and muse, without a word of explanation or good bye. As he slowly recovered, he tried to reconnect with her, wrote, contacted her father, only to meet a wall of silence. Seth's depiction of Michael's continuing emotional immaturity, his increasing despair at having lost what he now recognizes as his great love reveals the fragility of a character where musical brilliance and human weaknesses are interdependent. His solo career seemingly over, Michael joins the Maggiore Quartet as second violin. While in many ways a close knit group - the "family" gives his life the needed structure and support - it also is the source of inter-personal rivalries. The tensions, creative or destructive, between the quartet members are perceptively explored and the reader can appreciate the complex personalities of highly creative and sensitive virtuosi, whose captivating performances we tend to take for granted. Nonetheless, playing together, following the structural and harmonious intricacies of each composition, whether as duo, trio or quartet, overcomes any such impediments and leads to a level of intimacy and understanding that goes beyond speech. Getting into Michael's head with great skill, Seth creates a complex but believable character whose actions are often more the result of deeply felt emotions than rational analysis. To complement his protagonist's musings on his chamber musician colleagues and friends, and, of course, Julia, Seth turns to extensive passages of direct dialogue, thus energizing the narrative flow.

Michael's precious violin, an early 18th century Tononi, occupies one of the central themes in the narrative. It is another love affair of sorts and one he cannot abandon without losing his identity. Seth, well known also as a poet, finds the right lyrical tone when describing Michael's interaction with his violin, complementing the moods created by the music he plays or listens to. The violin, however, is only a long term loan from his violinist neighbour and music teacher in his home town in Northern England. She "discovered" and nurtured his talent from an early age and he keeps returning to her regularly for companionship and solace. Michael's family, while sympathetic, had no resources to support his ambitions. Seth very delicately raises the issues of family tensions, class and education as he contrasts Michael's upbringing with that of Julia, privileged daughter of an Oxford professor. Despite their differences, music can bridge any differences and misunderstandings between them.

It wouldn't be much of a story, if the former lovers were not to meet again... The romantic settings in Vienna and Venice add a beautiful and vivid backdrop to the concert tour by the Quartet. Those who have read the various reviews and book blurbs will no doubt know the main elements of the plot, unfortunately. I was cautioned by a friend not to read those and consequently explored the slow revelation of key events and secrets carried, with great pleasure. Seth has a wonderful sensitive touch in his exploration of the challenges faced by Michael and, in particular, Julia. This gives special depth to the story and take it beyond what one could have expected. [Friederike Knabe]

*) It is worthwhile exploring the music while reading or listening to it later on the companion CD An Equal Music (CD).


Moving and fast moving, 22 Jul 2008
An easy book to read as the plot flies along, the characters are very well drawn, the dialogue is good and the sense of yearning from the main protagonist is well drawn.

A love affair that ended abruptly without as the Americans say 'closure'. Both parties remain hurt, still in love with each other but dealing with the extenuating circumstances that crash into everyone's lives and pull them off in different directions. For the main protagonist the book relates the story of a crisis year in his life both in his professional life as a muscian and his love life.

It is extremely well written and very moving at the end as you feel for poor Michael who struggles to withstand the neverending pounding that just being alive can give you. Also if you love classical music the extra dimension this brings is a joy. Not quite great literature but in that territory.

Not for everyone - but definitely for me, 03 Jul 2008
There are two kinds of people in the world: those who tend to fall in love Hollywood-style (experiencing head over heels, all-consuming, passionate, exclusive, obsessive love - often illogical and regardless of whether that love is reciprocated) and those who do not.

Michael Holme, the main character and the narrator of Seth's novel, falls into the former category. If you do too, the chances are that you'll empathise with him. If you fall into the latter category and believe that the whole idea of "falling in love" is severely overrated or even simply fictitious, I suspect you'll agree with those reviewers who describe him as a whiner, as self-centred, as melodramatic.

Perhaps Michael Holme is all of those things, but I understand exactly where he's coming from; this, to me, makes Seth's protagonist (with all his flaws) both credible and human. Throughout the book, Seth's beautifully written prose really made me feel Michael's joy and his pain. I smiled and cried over this book in the works' canteen - but I was so gripped that not reading at lunchtime just wasn't an option.

I felt the book was a little slow to get started but I was soon under its spell. This is a story about loss and love of many kinds and for different people, things and places. The plot was believable, I loved the music within it and I could sympathise with the two main characters. It would have been easy for the author to have written a trite ending to the story or a tragic end for the character, but I was relieved that he did neither. I adored this novel. The characters and story resonated as readily with me as my instrument does with Bach's Cello Suites.


A good book with good moments, 31 May 2008
I'm never one for a stereotypical love story, preferring more challenging takes on the subject (The Time Traveller's Wife for example), and I'm pleased to say that this book was one of of those more challenging attempts. What is excellent about this book are the smooth, almost imperceptible transitions between the love side of the story and the musical side of the story. Being from a musical background, and in fact working in one of the music shops mentioned in the book, I found the first half of the book fascinating. The third quarter didn't grip me as much, but by the end of the book, I couldn't wait to see how everything would end. I would recommend reading this book - the story is excellent, but its real strength comes in stirring up genuine emotions inside you.

An excellent read, 08 Jul 2007
Perhaps I don't read enough, but I found this book to be an excellent read. I thought it caught the dynamics between a small group of musicians very well and I do not hesitate to recommend it.

A Suitable Book, 01 Sep 2008
If ever a book could bring to life another culture in another time, this is it. Loosely based on the search for the eponymous suitable boy for Lata, the spirited daughter of Mrs Rupa Mehra, the joy of this book is its wonderful characters and locations and, most of all, a sense of life and living in post-partition India.

This is a book in which to luxuriate; to ease yourself into the lives of the characters with whom you will journey over the 1400 pages of exquisite prose. The only reason to put this book down is to give your arms a rest!

I would unreservedly recommend this as my favourite book of the 2nd half of the 20th century. A book for lazy afternoons and long summer evenings. Spellbinding.

Needlessly long with non directional plot, 12 Aug 2008
This review will probably go against the grain but I bought this book on the premise that it was an award winning, must read and had not heard a bad thing said about the book. Being a bit of a book worm it didn't take as long to read as I initially thought it would, but I did find the story was more long winded than required. There was no discernable plot as the story just meandered through various sub plots that never quite ended satisfactorily. The abrupt ending did an injustice to the marathon reading effort it takes to work your way through it. Nevertheless, the amusing characters and rich use of language were enjoyable though overall I feel this was a pointless story with no plot development which I can't bring myself to recommend to anyone else.

GREAT!, 03 Aug 2008
This book was amazing! The start was a little slow but once you get into it and get familiar with the characters, you really start to enjoy it. I did skip a few pages here and there, (probably 5-10 in total) but it didnt take anything away from the story. Finishing the entire book feels like such an accomplishment but you begin to miss the characters and wish the book was longer.

A Suitable Boy, 05 Jul 2008
I found 'A Suitable Boy' to be a slow starter, but once you get going you'll be hooked. I found the first 300 hundred, or so, pages quite frustrating as I was waiting for something to happen, but then I settled into the story and realised that this was a meandering tale of family dynamics and the bonds of society. Once you realise that this book will not have huge shocks and intrigue the whole way through, but rather the gentle telling of lives and how they are intertwined with the odd moment of suspense or excitement, then you will become completely engrossed and compelled to return to this book at every given moment. The writing isn't stunningly beautiful (like In Arundhati Roys 'God Of Small Things', which I highly recommend if you enjoyed this) , but it's simplicity keeps you hooked to the story told, which may be more important in a book of this length. This is a big book and it will take some time to get through, but every moment is worthwhile and the journey is more important than the ending, so take your time and enjoy it. Well worth a read.

Pure Genius, 16 Apr 2008
A sublimely written book - spirited, nuanced characters revealing universal human truths and traits interacting gloriously in a specific and fascinating place and time.



Stupendously magical, 30 Aug 2008
I was tickled to come across this book again recently, which I first read over 15 years ago. If you enjoy good writing, you'll love this book. If you enjoy poetry, you'll love this book doubly. I'm no fan of poetry, yet I marvelled at the verse here. An entire novel written in rhyme is impressive enough; engaging the reader emotionally in the lives of its characters along the way only adds to the genius of it. I found myself re-reading passages upon passages of this book simply to revel in the sheer beauty and wit of the language. Storytelling doesn't get more sublime than this. Seth is unparalleled in what he has achieved here.

The Golden, Great Vikram Seth, 22 Mar 2008
Since I got a little - ok, a lot - carried away with my review, I thought I'd begin with my concluding paragraph so that you don't have to wade through my ravings (unless you'd like to, of course!):

What could so easily have been an "exercise de style"; an indulgent challenge for a talented and versatile writer, succeeds on every level. From a complex, classic verse form, Seth has crafted a contemporary novel which is both comic and poignant: an astounding achievement and a wonderful read.

I stumbled upon this book in the early 1990s, at a book warehouse sale, where everything was priced at £1. Having read the blurb on the back and noted that it was published by faber and faber, I decided to make this minor investment. Very thankful am I to that fateful discovery for what quickly became one of my very favourite books.

It induced in me that most common response having just finished a book I adore: grab people and tell them they must read it too. Whilst eulogising to one particular friend about The Golden Gate, and explaining that it was a whole novel written entirely in sonnet form verse, her reaction was, "Oh, why?!" If this is your reaction to that fact, perhaps this book is not for you. If, however, your response is "Oh, WOW!", get ye a copy and prepare to be blown away.

Seth is best known for his prose, especially An Equal Music and, most of all, A Suitable Boy. But he is also an accomplished poet, who is just a wonderful writer, whatever the genre (travel writing, short stories, biography). The sonnet is a long way from the sweeping epic narrative of A Suitable Boy - deemed too long to win the Booker. My first reading of The Golden Gate happened to coincide with the first year of my A' level courses, and in English Literature, we were studying Keats, and the sonnet in general. In an attempt to get us better to appreciate the skill involved in composing a sonnet, we were made to write one ourselves - or, at least, to attempt to so do. If it were not already clear, it soon became apparent that it's a complex form, requiring great talent to make it work.

The Golden Gate is set, obviously, in California, and concerns itself with the lives of a group of twenty-somethings as they look for love and purpose in their lives. Some of the verses are gentle and moving:

7.1

"When fear grows too intense to handle.
We shrink into a private smile,
Surpursie when here and there a candle
Drives back the dark a little while,
A little space, before it gutters;
Or in the madness a voice utters
Words full of calm that to us seem
To bear the dry light of a dream
And stain our waking with more sorrow.
The night of hate that covers earth,
The generous country of our birth,
The single land from which we borrow
All that is ours - air, insight, tears,
Our fragile lives - for a few years,"

Others are more playful; fizzing as they move the plot along:

11.20

"Liz burst into astonished laughter.
Phil watched her with uncertain eyes.
She wiped her streaming tears, and after
A sneeze or two asked, "Is that wise?"
"Wise?" "Sure, Phil - we don't love each other!
To borrow wisdom from my mother,
It's love that makes the world go round!"
"That's bullshit!" grunted Phil. "I've found
That love's a pretty poor forecaster.
I loved a woman - and was dropped.
I loved a man - and that too flopped.
Passion's a prelude to disaster.
It's something else that makes me sure.
Our bond can last five decades more."

At times one forgets one is reading verse, and just enjoys what is a delightful story, at others one is startled by the poetical beauty. Combined, the power of these two elements, make Seth's first novel a real achievement, and more importantly, a joy and a delight to read.


Brilliant and entertaining, 14 Feb 2006
An astonishing 300 pages of rhyming verse recount the story of a group of young Californians as they strive to make sense of their lives and loves. The text is rich in philosophical musings and carried along by a developing series of relationships between the protagonists. But the crowning glory is the verse, full of laugh-out-loud rhymes and verbal pyrotechnics. You know you are in for a treat when even the acknowledgements, dedication and contents pages are in verse. From then on, it just gets better.

One downside: for a novel, the central story is a bit thin. As a whole, though, The Golden Gate leaves the reader gasping with pleasure and admiration.

It's all true, 07 Jan 2004
I can only add my agreement to what has been said before. This is undoubtedly one of the finest books written in the past fifty years. An amazing achievement.

IT'LL NEVER WORK! (to the tune of Baddiel&Skinner unplanned), 11 May 2003
A novel written in sonnets; Well it worked for Pushkin and it most definitely works for Vikram Seth.

I first discovered Vikram Seth, when i was sent a copy of his first (travel) book 'From Heaven's Lake' to review. This book was brilliant and I boldly described it as one of the greatest travel books which would ever be written. Nearly twenty-five years later, I have not changed my opinion about that book one iota.

I approached 'Golden Gate' however, with hesitancy. It all seemed a bit gimmicky and although I was a big fan of Pushkin's 'Eugene Onegin', also written in sonnets, I felt that Seth's book would be, at best, an anachronism. How wrong I was! This book is truly one of THE great works of modern literature and cannot be praised highly enough. It is quite simply, beautiful.

Vikram Seth has now found international fame as a result of the bestselling 'A Suitable Boy', but, in my opinion, this is his greatest work. It's just a shame I won't be around in a hundred years to remind everyone of how perceptive I was! (and humble; we mustn't forget humble)

A Suitable Book, 01 Sep 2008
If ever a book could bring to life another culture in another time, this is it. Loosely based on the search for the eponymous suitable boy for Lata, the spirited daughter of Mrs Rupa Mehra, the joy of this book is its wonderful characters and locations and, most of all, a sense of life and living in post-partition India.

This is a book in which to luxuriate; to ease yourself into the lives of the characters with whom you will journey over the 1400 pages of exquisite prose. The only reason to put this book down is to give your arms a rest!

I would unreservedly recommend this as my favourite book of the 2nd half of the 20th century. A book for lazy afternoons and long summer evenings. Spellbinding.

Needlessly long with non directional plot, 12 Aug 2008
This review will probably go against the grain but I bought this book on the premise that it was an award winning, must read and had not heard a bad thing said about the book. Being a bit of a book worm it didn't take as long to read as I initially thought it would, but I did find the story was more long winded than required. There was no discernable plot as the story just meandered through various sub plots that never quite ended satisfactorily. The abrupt ending did an injustice to the marathon reading effort it takes to work your way through it. Nevertheless, the amusing characters and rich use of language were enjoyable though overall I feel this was a pointless story with no plot development which I can't bring myself to recommend to anyone else.

GREAT!, 03 Aug 2008
This book was amazing! The start was a little slow but once you get into it and get familiar with the characters, you really start to enjoy it. I did skip a few pages here and there, (probably 5-10 in total) but it didnt take anything away from the story. Finishing the entire book feels like such an accomplishment but you begin to miss the characters and wish the book was longer.

A Suitable Boy, 05 Jul 2008
I found 'A Suitable Boy' to be a slow starter, but once you get going you'll be hooked. I found the first 300 hundred, or so, pages quite frustrating as I was waiting for something to happen, but then I settled into the story and realised that this was a meandering tale of family dynamics and the bonds of society. Once you realise that this book will not have huge shocks and intrigue the whole way through, but rather the gentle telling of lives and how they are intertwined with the odd moment of suspense or excitement, then you will become completely engrossed and compelled to return to this book at every given moment. The writing isn't stunningly beautiful (like In Arundhati Roys 'God Of Small Things', which I highly recommend if you enjoyed this) , but it's simplicity keeps you hooked to the story told, which may be more important in a book of this length. This is a big book and it will take some time to get through, but every moment is worthwhile and the journey is more important than the ending, so take your time and enjoy it. Well worth a read.

Pure Genius, 16 Apr 2008
A sublimely written book - spirited, nuanced characters revealing universal human truths and traits interacting gloriously in a specific and fascinating place and time.



"Music is dearer to me even than speech" , 09 Oct 2008
... explains Vikram Seth in the "Author's note" to this engrossing novel. His intimate connection to music and the process of bringing it to life is palpable throughout the book. The story closely follows the ups and downs in the life of violinist Michael Holme and, to a lesser degree, that of the mysterious pianist Julia McNicholl. What makes the story move far beyond a romantic novel is Seth's ability to convey the deep significance of chamber music by no lesser composers than Bach, Beethoven, Mozart and Schubert for his characters' psyche and everyday lives. You don't have to be knowledgeable about the music to feel absorbed by this rich, complex and intimate love story. *)

The story, told through Michael's eyes, is mostly set in north London, where he has found refuge after fleeing Vienna, the town of his professional training. Ten years have passed but his musings keep returning to events in Vienna: self-doubts in his talent as a soloist, amplified by the demands of an exacting, overbearing teacher, had resulted in a complete breakdown. His abrupt departure left Julia, his love, music partner and muse, without a word of explanation or good bye. As he slowly recovered, he tried to reconnect with her, wrote, contacted her father, only to meet a wall of silence. Seth's depiction of Michael's continuing emotional immaturity, his increasing despair at having lost what he now recognizes as his great love reveals the fragility of a character where musical brilliance and human weaknesses are interdependent. His solo career seemingly over, Michael joins the Maggiore Quartet as second violin. While in many ways a close knit group - the "family" gives his life the needed structure and support - it also is the source of inter-personal rivalries. The tensions, creative or destructive, between the quartet members are perceptively explored and the reader can appreciate the complex personalities of highly creative and sensitive virtuosi, whose captivating performances we tend to take for granted. Nonetheless, playing together, following the structural and harmonious intricacies of each composition, whether as duo, trio or quartet, overcomes any such impediments and leads to a level of intimacy and understanding that goes beyond speech. Getting into Michael's head with great skill, Seth creates a complex but believable character whose actions are often more the result of deeply felt emotions than rational analysis. To complement his protagonist's musings on his chamber musician colleagues and friends, and, of course, Julia, Seth turns to extensive passages of direct dialogue, thus energizing the narrative flow.

Michael's precious violin, an early 18th century Tononi, occupies one of the central themes in the narrative. It is another love affair of sorts and one he cannot abandon without losing his identity. Seth, well known also as a poet, finds the right lyrical tone when describing Michael's interaction with his violin, complementing the moods created by the music he plays or listens to. The violin, however, is only a long term loan from his violinist neighbour and music teacher in his home town in Northern England. She "discovered" and nurtured his talent from an early age and he keeps returning to her regularly for companionship and solace. Michael's family, while sympathetic, had no resources to support his ambitions. Seth very delicately raises the issues of family tensions, class and education as he contrasts Michael's upbringing with that of Julia, privileged daughter of an Oxford professor. Despite their differences, music can bridge any differences and misunderstandings between them.

It wouldn't be much of a story, if the former lovers were not to meet again... The romantic settings in Vienna and Venice add a beautiful and vivid backdrop to the concert tour by the Quartet. Those who have read the various reviews and book blurbs will no doubt know the main elements of the plot, unfortunately. I was cautioned by a friend not to read those and consequently explored the slow revelation of key events and secrets carried, with great pleasure. Seth has a wonderful sensitive touch in his exploration of the challenges faced by Michael and, in particular, Julia. This gives special depth to the story and take it beyond what one could have expected. [Friederike Knabe]

*) It is worthwhile exploring the music while reading or listening to it later on the companion CD An Equal Music (CD).


Moving and fast moving, 22 Jul 2008
An easy book to read as the plot flies along, the characters are very well drawn, the dialogue is good and the sense of yearning from the main protagonist is well drawn.

A love affair that ended abruptly without as the Americans say 'closure'. Both parties remain hurt, still in love with each other but dealing with the extenuating circumstances that crash into everyone's lives and pull them off in different directions. For the main protagonist the book relates the story of a crisis year in his life both in his professional life as a muscian and his love life.

It is extremely well written and very moving at the end as you feel for poor Michael who struggles to withstand the neverending pounding that just being alive can give you. Also if you love classical music the extra dimension this brings is a joy. Not quite great literature but in that territory.

Not for everyone - but definitely for me, 03 Jul 2008
There are two kinds of people in the world: those who tend to fall in love Hollywood-style (experiencing head over heels, all-consuming, passionate, exclusive, obsessive love - often illogical and regardless of whether that love is reciprocated) and those who do not.

Michael Holme, the main character and the narrator of Seth's novel, falls into the former category. If you do too, the chances are that you'll empathise with him. If you fall into the latter category and believe that the whole idea of "falling in love" is severely overrated or even simply fictitious, I suspect you'll agree with those reviewers who describe him as a whiner, as self-centred, as melodramatic.

Perhaps Michael Holme is all of those things, but I understand exactly where he's coming from; this, to me, makes Seth's protagonist (with all his flaws) both credible and human. Throughout the book, Seth's beautifully written prose really made me feel Michael's joy and his pain. I smiled and cried over this book in the works' canteen - but I was so gripped that not reading at lunchtime just wasn't an option.

I felt the book was a little slow to get started but I was soon under its spell. This is a story about loss and love of many kinds and for different people, things and places. The plot was believable, I loved the music within it and I could sympathise with the two main characters. It would have been easy for the author to have written a trite ending to the story or a tragic end for the character, but I was relieved that he did neither. I adored this novel. The characters and story resonated as readily with me as my instrument does with Bach's Cello Suites.


A good book with good moments, 31 May 2008
I'm never one for a stereotypical love story, preferring more challenging takes on the subject (The Time Traveller's Wife for example), and I'm pleased to say that this book was one of of those more challenging attempts. What is excellent about this book are the smooth, almost imperceptible transitions between the love side of the story and the musical side of the story. Being from a musical background, and in fact working in one of the music shops mentioned in the book, I found the first half of the book fascinating. The third quarter didn't grip me as much, but by the end of the book, I couldn't wait to see how everything would end. I would recommend reading this book - the story is excellent, but its real strength comes in stirring up genuine emotions inside you.

An excellent read, 08 Jul 2007
Perhaps I don't read enough, but I found this book to be an excellent read. I thought it caught the dynamics between a small group of musicians very well and I do not hesitate to recommend it.

A Suitable Book, 01 Sep 2008
If ever a book could bring to life another culture in another time, this is it. Loosely based on the search for the eponymous suitable boy for Lata, the spirited daughter of Mrs Rupa Mehra, the joy of this book is its wonderful characters and locations and, most of all, a sense of life and living in post-partition India.

This is a book in which to luxuriate; to ease yourself into the lives of the characters with whom you will journey over the 1400 pages of exquisite prose. The only reason to put this book down is to give your arms a rest!

I would unreservedly recommend this as my favourite book of the 2nd half of the 20th century. A book for lazy afternoons and long summer evenings. Spellbinding.

Needlessly long with non directional plot, 12 Aug 2008
This review will probably go against the grain but I bought this book on the premise that it was an award winning, must read and had not heard a bad thing said about the book. Being a bit of a book worm it didn't take as long to read as I initially thought it would, but I did find the story was more long winded than required. There was no discernable plot as the story just meandered through various sub plots that never quite ended satisfactorily. The abrupt ending did an injustice to the marathon reading effort it takes to work your way through it. Nevertheless, the amusing characters and rich use of language were enjoyable though overall I feel this was a pointless story with no plot development which I can't bring myself to recommend to anyone else.

GREAT!, 03 Aug 2008
This book was amazing! The start was a little slow but once you get into it and get familiar with the characters, you really start to enjoy it. I did skip a few pages here and there, (probably 5-10 in total) but it didnt take anything away from the story. Finishing the entire book feels like such an accomplishment but you begin to miss the characters and wish the book was longer.

A Suitable Boy, 05 Jul 2008
I found 'A Suitable Boy' to be a slow starter, but once you get going you'll be hooked. I found the first 300 hundred, or so, pages quite frustrating as I was waiting for something to happen, but then I settled into the story and realised that this was a meandering tale of family dynamics and the bonds of society. Once you realise that this book will not have huge shocks and intrigue the whole way through, but rather the gentle telling of lives and how they are intertwined with the odd moment of suspense or excitement, then you will become completely engrossed and compelled to return to this book at every given moment. The writing isn't stunningly beautiful (like In Arundhati Roys 'God Of Small Things', which I highly recommend if you enjoyed this) , but it's simplicity keeps you hooked to the story told, which may be more important in a book of this length. This is a big book and it will take some time to get through, but every moment is worthwhile and the journey is more important than the ending, so take your time and enjoy it. Well worth a read.

Pure Genius, 16 Apr 2008
A sublimely written book - spirited, nuanced characters revealing universal human truths and traits interacting gloriously in a specific and fascinating place and time.



Stupendously magical, 30 Aug 2008
I was tickled to come across this book again recently, which I first read over 15 years ago. If you enjoy good writing, you'll love this book. If you enjoy poetry, you'll love this book doubly. I'm no fan of poetry, yet I marvelled at the verse here. An entire novel written in rhyme is impressive enough; engaging the reader emotionally in the lives of its characters along the way only adds to the genius of it. I found myself re-reading passages upon passages of this book simply to revel in the sheer beauty and wit of the language. Storytelling doesn't get more sublime than this. Seth is unparalleled in what he has achieved here.

The Golden, Great Vikram Seth, 22 Mar 2008
Since I got a little - ok, a lot - carried away with my review, I thought I'd begin with my concluding paragraph so that you don't have to wade through my ravings (unless you'd like to, of course!):

What could so easily have been an "exercise de style"; an indulgent challenge for a talented and versatile writer, succeeds on every level. From a complex, classic verse form, Seth has crafted a contemporary novel which is both comic and poignant: an astounding achievement and a wonderful read.

I stumbled upon this book in the early 1990s, at a book warehouse sale, where everything was priced at £1. Having read the blurb on the back and noted that it was published by faber and faber, I decided to make this minor investment. Very thankful am I to that fateful discovery for what quickly became one of my very favourite books.

It induced in me that most common response having just finished a book I adore: grab people and tell them they must read it too. Whilst eulogising to one particular friend about The Golden Gate, and explaining that it was a whole novel written entirely in sonnet form verse, her reaction was, "Oh, why?!" If this is your reaction to that fact, perhaps this book is not for you. If, however, your response is "Oh, WOW!", get ye a copy and prepare to be blown away.

Seth is best known for his prose, especially An Equal Music and, most of all, A Suitable Boy. But he is also an accomplished poet, who is just a wonderful writer, whatever the genre (travel writing, short stories, biography). The sonnet is a long way from the sweeping epic narrative of A Suitable Boy - deemed too long to win the Booker. My first reading of The Golden Gate happened to coincide with the first year of my A' level courses, and in English Literature, we were studying Keats, and the sonnet in general. In an attempt to get us better to appreciate the skill involved in composing a sonnet, we were made to write one ourselves - or, at least, to attempt to so do. If it were not already clear, it soon became apparent that it's a complex form, requiring great talent to make it work.

The Golden Gate is set, obviously, in California, and concerns itself with the lives of a group of twenty-somethings as they look for love and purpose in their lives. Some of the verses are gentle and moving:

7.1

"When fear grows too intense to handle.
We shrink into a private smile,
Surpursie when here and there a candle
Drives back the dark a little while,
A little space, before it gutters;
Or in the madness a voice utters
Words full of calm that to us seem
To bear the dry light of a dream
And stain our waking with more sorrow.
The night of hate that covers earth,
The generous country of our birth,
The single land from which we borrow
All that is ours - air, insight, tears,
Our fragile lives - for a few years,"

Others are more playful; fizzing as they move the plot along:

11.20

"Liz burst into astonished laughter.
Phil watched her with uncertain eyes.
She wiped her streaming tears, and after
A sneeze or two asked, "Is that wise?"
"Wise?" "Sure, Phil - we don't love each other!
To borrow wisdom from my mother,
It's love that makes the world go round!"
"That's bullshit!" grunted Phil. "I've found
That love's a pretty poor forecaster.
I loved a woman - and was dropped.
I loved a man - and that too flopped.
Passion's a prelude to disaster.
It's something else that makes me sure.
Our bond can last five decades more."

At times one forgets one is reading verse, and just enjoys what is a delightful story, at others one is startled by the poetical beauty. Combined, the power of these two elements, make Seth's first novel a real achievement, and more importantly, a joy and a delight to read.


Brilliant and entertaining, 14 Feb 2006
An astonishing 300 pages of rhyming verse recount the story of a group of young Californians as they strive to make sense of their lives and loves. The text is rich in philosophical musings and carried along by a developing series of relationships between the protagonists. But the crowning glory is the verse, full of laugh-out-loud rhymes and verbal pyrotechnics. You know you are in for a treat when even the acknowledgements, dedication and contents pages are in verse. From then on, it just gets better.

One downside: for a novel, the central story is a bit thin. As a whole, though, The Golden Gate leaves the reader gasping with pleasure and admiration.

It's all true, 07 Jan 2004
I can only add my agreement to what has been said before. This is undoubtedly one of the finest books written in the past fifty years. An amazing achievement.

IT'LL NEVER WORK! (to the tune of Baddiel&Skinner unplanned), 11 May 2003
A novel written in sonnets; Well it worked for Pushkin and it most definitely works for Vikram Seth.

I first discovered Vikram Seth, when i was sent a copy of his first (travel) book 'From Heaven's Lake' to review. This book was brilliant and I boldly described it as one of the greatest travel books which would ever be written. Nearly twenty-five years later, I have not changed my opinion about that book one iota.

I approached 'Golden Gate' however, with hesitancy. It all seemed a bit gimmicky and although I was a big fan of Pushkin's 'Eugene Onegin', also written in sonnets, I felt that Seth's book would be, at best, an anachronism. How wrong I was! This book is truly one of THE great works of modern literature and cannot be praised highly enough. It is quite simply, beautiful.

Vikram Seth has now found international fame as a result of the bestselling 'A Suitable Boy', but, in my opinion, this is his greatest work. It's just a shame I won't be around in a hundred years to remind everyone of how perceptive I was! (and humble; we mustn't forget humble)

A Suitable Book, 01 Sep 2008
If ever a book could bring to life another culture in another time, this is it. Loosely based on the search for the eponymous suitable boy for Lata, the spirited daughter of Mrs Rupa Mehra, the joy of this book is its wonderful characters and locations and, most of all, a sense of life and living in post-partition India.

This is a book in which to luxuriate; to ease yourself into the lives of the characters with whom you will journey over the 1400 pages of exquisite prose. The only reason to put this book down is to give your arms a rest!

I would unreservedly recommend this as my favourite book of the 2nd half of the 20th century. A book for lazy afternoons and long summer evenings. Spellbinding.

Needlessly long with non directional plot, 12 Aug 2008
This review will probably go against the grain but I bought this book on the premise that it was an award winning, must read and had not heard a bad thing said about the book. Being a bit of a book worm it didn't take as long to read as I initially thought it would, but I did find the story was more long winded than required. There was no discernable plot as the story just meandered through various sub plots that never quite ended satisfactorily. The abrupt ending did an injustice to the marathon reading effort it takes to work your way through it. Nevertheless, the amusing characters and rich use of language were enjoyable though overall I feel this was a pointless story with no plot development which I can't bring myself to recommend to anyone else.

GREAT!, 03 Aug 2008
This book was amazing! The start was a little slow but once you get into it and get familiar with the characters, you really start to enjoy it. I did skip a few pages here and there, (probably 5-10 in total) but it didnt take anything away from the story. Finishing the entire book feels like such an accomplishment but you begin to miss the characters and wish the book was longer.

A Suitable Boy, 05 Jul 2008
I found 'A Suitable Boy' to be a slow starter, but once you get going you'll be hooked. I found the first 300 hundred, or so, pages quite frustrating as I was waiting for something to happen, but then I settled into the story and realised that this was a meandering tale of family dynamics and the bonds of society. Once you realise that this book will not have huge shocks and intrigue the whole way through, but rather the gentle telling of lives and how they are intertwined with the odd moment of suspense or excitement, then you will become completely engrossed and compelled to return to this book at every given moment. The writing isn't stunningly beautiful (like In Arundhati Roys 'God Of Small Things', which I highly recommend if you enjoyed this) , but it's simplicity keeps you hooked to the story told, which may be more important in a book of this length. This is a big book and it will take some time to get through, but every moment is worthwhile and the journey is more important than the ending, so take your time and enjoy it. Well worth a read.

Pure Genius, 16 Apr 2008
A sublimely written book - spirited, nuanced characters revealing universal human truths and traits interacting gloriously in a specific and fascinating place and time.

A Suitable Book, 01 Sep 2008
If ever a book could bring to life another culture in another time, this is it. Loosely based on the search for the eponymous suitable boy for Lata, the spirited daughter of Mrs Rupa Mehra, the joy of this book is its wonderful characters and locations and, most of all, a sense of life and living in post-partition India.

This is a book in which to luxuriate; to ease yourself into the lives of the characters with whom you will journey over the 1400 pages of exquisite prose. The only reason to put this book down is to give your arms a rest!

I would unreservedly recommend this as my favourite book of the 2nd half of the 20th century. A book for lazy afternoons and long summer evenings. Spellbinding.

Needlessly long with non directional plot, 12 Aug 2008
This review will probably go against the grain but I bought this book on the premise that it was an award winning, must read and had not heard a bad thing said about the book. Being a bit of a book worm it didn't take as long to read as I initially thought it would, but I did find the story was more long winded than required. There was no discernable plot as the story just meandered through various sub plots that never quite ended satisfactorily. The abrupt ending did an injustice to the marathon reading effort it takes to work your way through it. Nevertheless, the amusing characters and rich use of language were enjoyable though overall I feel this was a pointless story with no plot development which I can't bring myself to recommend to anyone else.

GREAT!, 03 Aug 2008
This book was amazing! The start was a little slow but once you get into it and get familiar with the characters, you really start to enjoy it. I did skip a few pages here and there, (probably 5-10 in total) but it didnt take anything away from the story. Finishing the entire book feels like such an accomplishment but you begin to miss the characters and wish the book was longer.

A Suitable Boy, 05 Jul 2008
I found 'A Suitable Boy' to be a slow starter, but once you get going you'll be hooked. I found the first 300 hundred, or so, pages quite frustrating as I was waiting for something to happen, but then I settled into the story and realised that this was a meandering tale of family dynamics and the bonds of society. Once you realise that this book will not have huge shocks and intrigue the whole way through, but rather the gentle telling of lives and how they are intertwined with the odd moment of suspense or excitement, then you will become completely engrossed and compelled to return to this book at every given moment. The writing isn't stunningly beautiful (like In Arundhati Roys 'God Of Small Things', which I highly recommend if you enjoyed this) , but it's simplicity keeps you hooked to the story told, which may be more important in a book of this length. This is a big book and it will take some time to get through, but every moment is worthwhile and the journey is more important than the ending, so take your time and enjoy it. Well worth a read.

Pure Genius, 16 Apr 2008
A sublimely written book - spirited, nuanced characters revealing universal human truths and traits interacting gloriously in a specific and fascinating place and time.



"Music is dearer to me even than speech" , 09 Oct 2008
... explains Vikram Seth in the "Author's note" to this engrossing novel. His intimate connection to music and the process of bringing it to life is palpable throughout the book. The story closely follows the ups and downs in the life of violinist Michael Holme and, to a lesser degree, that of the mysterious pianist Julia McNicholl. What makes the story move far beyond a romantic novel is Seth's ability to convey the deep significance of chamber music by no lesser composers than Bach, Beethoven, Mozart and Schubert for his characters' psyche and everyday lives. You don't have to be knowledgeable about the music to feel absorbed by this rich, complex and intimate love story. *)

The story, told through Michael's eyes, is mostly set in north London, where he has found refuge after fleeing Vienna, the town of his professional training. Ten years have passed but his musings keep returning to events in Vienna: self-doubts in his talent as a soloist, amplified by the demands of an exacting, overbearing teacher, had resulted in a complete breakdown. His abrupt departure left Julia, his love, music partner and muse, without a word of explanation or good bye. As he slowly recovered, he tried to reconnect with her, wrote, contacted her father, only to meet a wall of silence. Seth's depiction of Michael's continuing emotional immaturity, his increasing despair at having lost what he now recognizes as his great love reveals the fragility of a character where musical brilliance and human weaknesses are interdependent. His solo career seemingly over, Michael joins the Maggiore Quartet as second violin. While in many ways a close knit group - the "family" gives his life the needed structure and support - it also is the source of inter-personal rivalries. The tensions, creative or destructive, between the quartet members are perceptively explored and the reader can appreciate the complex personalities of highly creative and sensitive virtuosi, whose captivating performances we tend to take for granted. Nonetheless, playing together, following the structural and harmonious intricacies of each composition, whether as duo, trio or quartet, overcomes any such impediments and leads to a level of intimacy and understanding that goes beyond speech. Getting into Michael's head with great skill, Seth creates a complex but believable character whose actions are often more the result of deeply felt emotions than rational analysis. To complement his protagonist's musings on his chamber musician colleagues and friends, and, of course, Julia, Seth turns to extensive passages of direct dialogue, thus energizing the narrative flow.

Michael's precious violin, an early 18th century Tononi, occupies one of the central themes in the narrative. It is another love affair of sorts and one he cannot abandon without losing his identity. Seth, well known also as a poet, finds the right lyrical tone when describing Michael's interaction with his violin, complementing the moods created by the music he plays or listens to. The violin, however, is only a long term loan from his violinist neighbour and music teacher in his home town in Northern England. She "discovered" and nurtured his talent from an early age and he keeps returning to her regularly for companionship and solace. Michael's family, while sympathetic, had no resources to support his ambitions. Seth very delicately raises the issues of family tensions, class and education as he contrasts Michael's upbringing with that of Julia, privileged daughter of an Oxford professor. Despite their differences, music can bridge any differences and misunderstandings between them.

It wouldn't be much of a story, if the former lovers were not to meet again... The romantic settings in Vienna and Venice add a beautiful and vivid backdrop to the concert tour by the Quartet. Those who have read the various reviews and book blurbs will no doubt know the main elements of the plot, unfortunately. I was cautioned by a friend not to read those and consequently explored the slow revelation of key events and secrets carried, with great pleasure. Seth has a wonderful sensitive touch in his exploration of the challenges faced by Michael and, in particular, Julia. This gives special depth to the story and take it beyond what one could have expected. [Friederike Knabe]

*) It is worthwhile exploring the music while reading or listening to it later on the companion CD An Equal Music (CD).


Moving and fast moving, 22 Jul 2008
An easy book to read as the plot flies along, the characters are very well drawn, the dialogue is good and the sense of yearning from the main protagonist is well drawn.

A love affair that ended abruptly without as the Americans say 'closure'. Both parties remain hurt, still in love with each other but dealing with the extenuating circumstances that crash into everyone's lives and pull them off in different directions. For the main protagonist the book relates the story of a crisis year in his life both in his professional life as a muscian and his love life.

It is extremely well written and very moving at the end as you feel for poor Michael who struggles to withstand the neverending pounding that just being alive can give you. Also if you love classical music the extra dimension this brings is a joy. Not quite great literature but in that territory.

Not for everyone - but definitely for me, 03 Jul 2008
There are two kinds of people in the world: those who tend to fall in love Hollywood-style (experiencing head over heels, all-consuming, passionate, exclusive, obsessive love - often illogical and regardless of whether that love is reciprocated) and those who do not.

Michael Holme, the main character and the narrator of Seth's novel, falls into the former category. If you do too, the chances are that you'll empathise with him. If you fall into the latter category and believe that the whole idea of "falling in love" is severely overrated or even simply fictitious, I suspect you'll agree with those reviewers who describe him as a whiner, as self-centred, as melodramatic.

Perhaps Michael Holme is all of those things, but I understand exactly where he's coming from; this, to me, makes Seth's protagonist (with all his flaws) both credible and human. Throughout the book, Seth's beautifully written prose really made me feel Michael's joy and his pain. I smiled and cried over this book in the works' canteen - but I was so gripped that not reading at lunchtime just wasn't an option.

I felt the book was a little slow to get started but I was soon under its spell. This is a story about loss and love of many kinds and for different people, things and places. The plot was believable, I loved the music within it and I could sympathise with the two main characters. It would have been easy for the author to have written a trite ending to the story or a tragic end for the character, but I was relieved that he did neither. I adored this novel. The characters and story resonated as readily with me as my instrument does with Bach's Cello Suites.


A good book with good moments, 31 May 2008
I'm never one for a stereotypical love story, preferring more challenging takes on the subject (The Time Traveller's Wife for example), and I'm pleased to say that this book was one of of those more challenging attempts. What is excellent about this book are the smooth, almost imperceptible transitions between the love side of the story and the musical side of the story. Being from a musical background, and in fact working in one of the music shops mentioned in the book, I found the first half of the book fascinating. The third quarter didn't grip me as much, but by the end of the book, I couldn't wait to see how everything would end. I would recommend reading this book - the story is excellent, but its real strength comes in stirring up genuine emotions inside you.

An excellent read, 08 Jul 2007
Perhaps I don't read enough, but I found this book to be an excellent read. I thought it caught the dynamics between a small group of musicians very well and I do not hesitate to recommend it.

A Suitable Book, 01 Sep 2008
If ever a book could bring to life another culture in another time, this is it. Loosely based on the search for the eponymous suitable boy for Lata, the spirited daughter of Mrs Rupa Mehra, the joy of this book is its wonderful characters and locations and, most of all, a sense of life and living in post-partition India.

This is a book in which to luxuriate; to ease yourself into the lives of the characters with whom you will journey over the 1400 pages of exquisite prose. The only reason to put this book down is to give your arms a rest!

I would unreservedly recommend this as my favourite book of the 2nd half of the 20th century. A book for lazy afternoons and long summer evenings. Spellbinding.

Needlessly long with non directional plot, 12 Aug 2008
This review will probably go against the grain but I bought this book on the premise that it was an award winning, must read and had not heard a bad thing said about the book. Being a bit of a book worm it didn't take as long to read as I initially thought it would, but I did find the story was more long winded than required. There was no discernable plot as the story just meandered through various sub plots that never quite ended satisfactorily. The abrupt ending did an injustice to the marathon reading effort it takes to work your way through it. Nevertheless, the amusing characters and rich use of language were enjoyable though overall I feel this was a pointless story with no plot development which I can't bring myself to recommend to anyone else.

GREAT!, 03 Aug 2008
This book was amazing! The start was a little slow but once you get into it and get familiar with the characters, you really start to enjoy it. I did skip a few pages here and there, (probably 5-10 in total) but it didnt take anything away from the story. Finishing the entire book feels like such an accomplishment but you begin to miss the characters and wish the book was longer.

A Suitable Boy, 05 Jul 2008
I found 'A Suitable Boy' to be a slow starter, but once you get going you'll be hooked. I found the first 300 hundred, or so, pages quite frustrating as I was waiting for something to happen, but then I settled into the story and realised that this was a meandering tale of family dynamics and the bonds of society. Once you realise that this book will not have huge shocks and intrigue the whole way through, but rather the gentle telling of lives and how they are intertwined with the odd moment of suspense or excitement, then you will become completely engrossed and compelled to return to this book at every given moment. The writing isn't stunningly beautiful (like In Arundhati Roys 'God Of Small Things', which I highly recommend if you enjoyed this) , but it's simplicity keeps you hooked to the story told, which may be more important in a book of this length. This is a big book and it will take some time to get through, but every moment is worthwhile and the journey is more important than the ending, so take your time and enjoy it. Well worth a read.

Pure Genius, 16 Apr 2008
A sublimely written book - spirited, nuanced characters revealing universal human truths and traits interacting gloriously in a specific and fascinating place and time.



Stupendously magical, 30 Aug 2008
I was tickled to come across this book again recently, which I first read over 15 years ago. If you enjoy good writing, you'll love this book. If you enjoy poetry, you'll love this book doubly. I'm no fan of poetry, yet I marvelled at the verse here. An entire novel written in rhyme is impressive enough; engaging the reader emotionally in the lives of its characters along the way only adds to the genius of it. I found myself re-reading passages upon passages of this book simply to revel in the sheer beauty and wit of the language. Storytelling doesn't get more sublime than this. Seth is unparalleled in what he has achieved here.

The Golden, Great Vikram Seth, 22 Mar 2008
Since I got a little - ok, a lot - carried away with my review, I thought I'd begin with my concluding paragraph so that you don't have to wade through my ravings (unless you'd like to, of course!):

What could so easily have been an "exercise de style"; an indulgent challenge for a talented and versatile writer, succeeds on every level. From a complex, classic verse form, Seth has crafted a contemporary novel which is both comic and poignant: an astounding achievement and a wonderful read.

I stumbled upon this book in the early 1990s, at a book warehouse sale, where everything was priced at £1. Having read the blurb on the back and noted that it was published by faber and faber, I decided to make this minor investment. Very thankful am I to that fateful discovery for what quickly became one of my very favourite books.

It induced in me that most common response having just finished a book I adore: grab people and tell them they must read it too. Whilst eulogising to one particular friend about The Golden Gate, and explaining that it was a whole novel written entirely in sonnet form verse, her reaction was, "Oh, why?!" If this is your reaction to that fact, perhaps this book is not for you. If, however, your response is "Oh, WOW!", get ye a copy and prepare to be blown away.

Seth is best known for his prose, especially An Equal Music and, most of all, A Suitable Boy. But he is also an accomplished poet, who is just a wonderful writer, whatever the genre (travel writing, short stories, biography). The sonnet is a long way from the sweeping epic narrative of A Suitable Boy - deemed too long to win the Booker. My first reading of The Golden Gate happened to coincide with the first year of my A' level courses, and in English Literature, we were studying Keats, and the sonnet in general. In an attempt to get us better to appreciate the skill involved in composing a sonnet, we were made to write one ourselves - or, at least, to attempt to so do. If it were not already clear, it soon became apparent that it's a complex form, requiring great talent to make it work.

The Golden Gate is set, obviously, in California, and concerns itself with the lives of a group of twenty-somethings as they look for love and purpose in their lives. Some of the verses are gentle and moving:

7.1

"When fear grows too intense to handle.
We shrink into a private smile,
Surpursie when here and there a candle
Drives back the dark a little while,
A little space, before it gutters;
Or in the madness a voice utters
Words full of calm that to us seem
To bear the dry light of a dream
And stain our waking with more sorrow.
The night of hate that covers earth,
The generous country of our birth,
The single land from which we borrow
All that is ours - air, insight, tears,
Our fragile lives - for a few years,"

Others are more playful; fizzing as they move the plot along:

11.20

"Liz burst into astonished laughter.
Phil watched her with uncertain eyes.
She wiped her streaming tears, and after
A sneeze or two asked, "Is that wise?"
"Wise?" "Sure, Phil - we don't love each other!
To borrow wisdom from my mother,
It's love that makes the world go round!"
"That's bullshit!" grunted Phil. "I've found
That love's a pretty poor forecaster.
I loved a woman - and was dropped.
I loved a man - and that too flopped.
Passion's a prelude to disaster.
It's something else that makes me sure.
Our bond can last five decades more."

At times one forgets one is reading verse, and just enjoys what is a delightful story, at others one is startled by the poetical beauty. Combined, the power of these two elements, make Seth's first novel a real achievement, and more importantly, a joy and a delight to read.


Brilliant and entertaining, 14 Feb 2006
An astonishing 300 pages of rhyming verse recount the story of a group of young Californians as they strive to make sense of their lives and loves. The text is rich in philosophical musings and carried along by a developing series of relationships between the protagonists. But the crowning glory is the verse, full of laugh-out-loud rhymes and verbal pyrotechnics. You know you are in for a treat when even the acknowledgements, dedication and contents pages are in verse. From then on, it just gets better.

One downside: for a novel, the central story is a bit thin. As a whole, though, The Golden Gate leaves the reader gasping with pleasure and admiration.

It's all true, 07 Jan 2004
I can only add my agreement to what has been said before. This is undoubtedly one of the finest books written in the past fifty years. An amazing achievement.

IT'LL NEVER WORK! (to the tune of Baddiel&Skinner unplanned), 11 May 2003
A novel written in sonnets; Well it worked for Pushkin and it most definitely works for Vikram Seth.

I first discovered Vikram Seth, when i was sent a copy of his first (travel) book 'From Heaven's Lake' to review. This book was brilliant and I boldly described it as one of the greatest travel books which would ever be written. Nearly twenty-five years later, I have not changed my opinion about that book one iota.

I approached 'Golden Gate' however, with hesitancy. It all seemed a bit gimmicky and although I was a big fan of Pushkin's 'Eugene Onegin', also written in sonnets, I felt that Seth's book would be, at best, an anachronism. How wrong I was! This book is truly one of THE great works of modern literature and cannot be praised highly enough. It is quite simply, beautiful.

Vikram Seth has now found international fame as a result of the bestselling 'A Suitable Boy', but, in my opinion, this is his greatest work. It's just a shame I won't be around in a hundred years to remind everyone of how perceptive I was! (and humble; we mustn't forget humble)

A Suitable Book, 01 Sep 2008
If ever a book could bring to life another culture in another time, this is it. Loosely based on the search for the eponymous suitable boy for Lata, the spirited daughter of Mrs Rupa Mehra, the joy of this book is its wonderful characters and locations and, most of all, a sense of life and living in post-partition India.

This is a book in which to luxuriate; to ease yourself into the lives of the characters with whom you will journey over the 1400 pages of exquisite prose. The only reason to put this book down is to give your arms a rest!

I would unreservedly recommend this as my favourite book of t