Tom Cox’s Everything Will Swallow You: A Review & Analysis

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.