🦉 Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell 💀

This is my first taste of author Maggie O’Farrell , and I have to say I was impressed, this is beautifully written and smart storytelling.

The story revolves around Agnes, a woman with a deep connection to nature and a unique gift of premonition. She marries Will, a struggling playwright who eventually becomes the renowned William Shakespeare. Their marriage is marked by love, passion, and the challenges of raising three children in the shadow of Will’s demanding career. Tragically, their son Hamnet falls ill and dies at a young age, leaving the family shattered. The novel explores the grief, loss, and resilience of the family members, particularly Agnes, in the aftermath of Hamnet’s death.

Anyone, Eliza is thinking, who describes dying as “slipping away” or peaceful” has never witnessed it happen.

I was captivated by most of the novel, especially the atmosphere and the portrayal of parental grief. The author’s personal experiences added depth to the story. However, I couldn’t fully connect with the writing, possibly due to the shift from first-person to third-person perspective. Despite this, I still recommend the book as a unique and well-crafted piece of historical fiction.

“Every life has its kernel, its hub, its epicenter, from which everything flows out, to which everything returns.”

Despite this, “Hamnet” left a lasting impression on me. It made me reflect on the intricate threads of fate and how seemingly small events can ripple through generations. O’Farrell’s storytelling, although intricate, was undeniably powerful, leaving me with a sense of awe and a deeper appreciation for the nuances of life and love.