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Journalism of Courage
Morning and Evening (2015)
This novel is written, as most of Fosse’s works are, in the Norwegian dialect of Nynorsk. It tells the story of Johannes, from before he was born, to the day he grows into an old man, and realises it. The narrative also dips into life after his death, in a muddled and obfuscated style. The old man draws comfort from habits which bring him peace without pleasure, but, one day, realises that something in that stabilising routine is off.
Scenes from a Childhood (2018)
A short story collection that spans two decades of Fosse’s career, it explores childhood, anxieties about adulthood, the pains of growing into a sexuality, and how illness returns to haunt us on our best days. Multiple stories tackle grief and violence as perceived by a child, allowing Fosse to dip into monologues which say more with brevity, with a child’s sense of language – in short, terse sentences.
Melancholy (1995)
It is about the real-life Norwegian painter Lars Hertervig who was anguished by doubt in his art and relationships, eventually losing control of his mental health. The book has a sequel too: Melancholy II, told from the perspective of Hertervig’s sister, who has been asked to speak to him on his deathbed. That request belabours her, and the ensuing meditations on their relationship and childhood together spans the length of the work.
Septology (2019-2021)
This is a seven-volume trilogy about a painter trying to paint a cross resembling the cross of Saint Andrew. The painter meditates on his art and its relationship to life and religion, always in dialogue with another painter on the other side of town – with the same name. The books are written in a single sentence, loosely plotted, and full of half-complete thoughts a la stream-of-consciousness.
Aliss at the Fire (2003)
The book opens on a visit to the beach for Signe, an old widow, but a glance at the waters sparks a flashback from decades ago, when her husband went boating into the sea and never came back. That memory leads to a love story in retrospect – about how generational accidents culminate in cherished moments of love – told in a lyrical style, translated by long-time collaborator Damion Searls.
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