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The man in the Red Coat
288 pages, 2020
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999 booksIn 1885, three men from France spent a few days in London. Each would achieve some renown, but who were they then, and what was the significance of their sojourn to England?
Julian Barnes answers these questions in his new novel. It's about Samuel Pozzi—a doctor, free thinker and man of science known for his complicated private life (he was the subject of one of John Singer Sargent's greatest portraits). We see Henry James, Sarah Bernhardt and Oscar Wilde too, as well as Proust and Whistler.
Throughout this book we see not merely an epoch of glamour and pleasure, but also one of violence, prejudice, and nativism—with more parallels to our own age than we might imagine.
In 'The Man in the Red Coat', Julian Barnes takes us on a journey through the life of Samuel Pozzi, a fascinating character from the Belle Époque era. Pozzi was a pioneering gynecologist, a man of science, and a lover of art and literature. His life is a testament to the richness and diversity of human experience.
The book gives us a vivid glimpse into the Belle Époque era, a time of great cultural and technological change. Through the life of Pozzi, we get to see the social, political, and cultural dynamics of this period. It's like taking a time machine back to the late 19th and early 20th century.
Barnes beautifully intertwines art and literature into the narrative. He uses a famous portrait of Pozzi by John Singer Sargent as a starting point, and from there, he explores the world of art and literature that Pozzi was a part of. It's a treat for anyone who loves art and literature.
One of the key themes in the book is the complexity of human relationships. Pozzi was known for his many romantic entanglements, and through his story, we get to explore the intricacies of love, passion, and friendship. It's a reminder of the complexity and beauty of human connections.
Finally, 'The Man in the Red Coat' is a testament to the power of storytelling. Julian Barnes masterfully weaves together different threads of Pozzi's life to create a compelling narrative. It's a reminder of how stories can bring the past to life and make history feel personal and relevant.