Beyond Brexitshire: Tom Cox‘s “Everything Will Swallow You” and the Enduring Warmth of England
Tom Cox has carved a unique niche in contemporary literature, one defined by a gentle quirkiness and a deep affection for the English countryside. His latest novel, “Everything Will Swallow You,” isn’t just a charming story; it’s a quietly hopeful exploration of modern Britain, a counter-narrative to the often-caricatured vision of a fractured nation. If you appreciate literary fiction with a touch of the fantastical and a whole lot of heart, this book is for you.
A Tale of Two companions
At the heart of the novel is the unlikely friendship between Eric, a liverpudlian record dealer, and Carl, a remarkably gifted (and secretly magical) sea creature. Carl isn’t your typical companion.He can pass as a large brown dog, but also boasts 24 fingers, a penchant for Barbara Kingsolver, fluency in six languages, and an exceptional talent for knitting. He even secretly crafts a cardigan for Eric, a gesture that embodies the novel’s pervasive kindness.
This odd couple’s peripatetic life, currently settled in rural Dorset, serves as a vehicle for Cox to showcase the enduring decency of the people they encounter. Everywhere they go, despite minor mishaps, they find “furiously nice people.” The story unfolds as Eric’s life story, both before and after Carl enters the picture.
Vinyl, Values, and a “State of England”
Cox cleverly uses Eric’s profession – dealing in vinyl records – as a metaphor for societal values. The fortunes of the long-playing record mirror the state of the nation. When vinyl is valued – not just priced – society flourishes. the cynical 90s represented a low point, but the recent resurgence of interest in analogue among Gen Z signals a positive shift.
You might recognize Cox’s work from previous novels like “Villager” and ”1983,” or his nature writing in “21st Century Yokel.” He consistently offers a refreshing choice to the often-simplistic “Brexitshire” portrayals of rural England.
What Sets Cox apart?
cox doesn’t shy away from acknowledging the challenges facing modern Britain – the pervasive influence of technology, the increasing polarization of opinions. However, he insists on looking beyond the headlines. He reveals a countryside brimming with folklore, history, and, most importantly, genuinely kind people.
Here’s what makes his approach so compelling:
* focus on the Positive: Cox actively seeks out and highlights the warmth and resilience within communities.
* Subtle Magic: The fantastical elements,like Carl,aren’t jarring; they enhance the sense of wonder and possibility.
* Topical Relevance: The novel subtly addresses contemporary issues without becoming preachy or overtly political.
* Nostalgia & Hope: He taps into a longing for simpler times while remaining optimistic about the future.
England’s Enduring Spirit
Like a well-loved vinyl record, England may experience periods of neglect. But, as Cox argues, there’s a basic dependability to the nation, a deep-rooted connection to its folklore, nature, and history.He reminds us that even in a rapidly changing world, something warm and enduring remains.
As Eric notes in his journal – a sentiment that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Cox’s work: “Records never did a lot of what I thought they’d do for me. They didn’t make me cooler or more handsome or help me solve the secret of the universe. But they helped get me through some hard times and taught me that magic is real.”
“Everything Will Swallow You” isn’t a grand, sweeping epic. It’s a quiet,comforting read – a literary cardigan,if you will – that reminds you of the beauty and kindness that still exists in the world.
**You can purchase “Everything Will Swallow you” by Tom Cox at guardianbookshop.com.
