Thomas Morris’ debut short story collection, "We Don't Know What We're Doing," is an evocative exploration of life in Caerphilly, a small castle town in South Wales. This collection, which has garnered significant literary acclaim, including the Wales Book of the Year Award and the Somerset Maugham Prize, is a remarkable tapestry of ordinary lives, woven with wit, poignancy, and a touch of the absurd.
Setting the Scene: Caerphilly as a Character
Caerphilly, with its imposing medieval castle and quiet, winding streets, serves as more than just a backdrop for Morris’ stories. It is a character in itself, influencing and shaping the lives of its inhabitants. The town's atmosphere is a blend of historic charm and modern ennui, reflecting the internal landscapes of the characters who populate Morris’ narratives. This duality is essential in understanding the overarching themes of the collection—nostalgia, stagnation, and the search for meaning in the mundane.
Themes of Dislocation and Belonging
One of the most striking themes in "We Don't Know What We're Doing" is the sense of dislocation and the quest for belonging. The characters, despite being rooted in their community, often feel adrift. In the story "Fugue," for instance, a young video shop assistant finds himself caught between the familiar comfort of his home and the fleeting allure of a new encounter. This internal conflict mirrors the broader tension between tradition and change, a recurring motif throughout the book.
The Banality and Beauty of Everyday Life
Morris has a gift for capturing the beauty and banality of everyday life. His stories are populated with characters who lead seemingly ordinary lives but are portrayed with a depth and nuance that brings their inner worlds to life. In "Castle View," a brother and sister's adventure into a coal mine with a Japanese tourist becomes a journey of self-discovery and reflection on familial bonds. Morris’ writing is imbued with a sense of empathy, making even the most mundane moments resonate with emotional significance.
Humor and Tragedy in Equal Measure
Balancing humor and tragedy is one of Morris' strengths. His stories often contain a mix of both, reflecting the complexity of human experience. "All the Boys," for example, juxtaposes the carefree antics of a Welsh stag party in Dublin with a heartbreaking confession, highlighting how moments of joy and sorrow are intertwined. This balance is achieved through Morris' keen ear for dialogue and his ability to create vivid, relatable characters.
A Fresh Voice in Contemporary Fiction
Thomas Morris' style is fresh and distinctive, characterized by an uncanny ear for dialogue and a sharp observational eye. His influences range from the modernist tones of Dylan Thomas to the contemporary nuances of George Saunders and Ali Smith. This blend of styles results in a voice that is uniquely his own, offering a new perspective on the human condition.
The Stories: A Closer Look
"Fugue"
- In "Fugue," a young man working at a video rental store navigates the complexities of a brief encounter with an older woman. This story captures the fleeting nature of human connections and the lingering impact they can have. The protagonist's internal struggle and the mundane setting create a poignant reflection on the intersections of routine and desire.
"Castle View"
- This story features a brother and sister who, along with a Japanese tourist, find themselves at the bottom of a coal mine. The narrative delves into themes of heritage, adventure, and the unexpected ways in which we confront our pasts. The coal mine, a symbol of Wales' industrial history, serves as a metaphor for the characters' exploration of their personal histories.
"All the Boys"
- "All the Boys" follows a group of Welsh men on a stag weekend in Dublin. Amidst the revelry, one character's confession of a deep personal truth brings a somber note to the festivities. This story exemplifies Morris' ability to blend humor with pathos, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and deeply moving.
"Fugue"
- This story explores the life of a twice-widowed pensioner trying to convince Mrs. Morgan to attend the town’s summer festival with him. The narrative poignantly explores themes of loneliness, aging, and the enduring need for companionship. Through the pensioner’s earnest efforts, Morris highlights the human desire for connection even in the later stages of life.
The Literary Impact and Reception
"We Don't Know What We're Doing" has been praised for its insightful portrayal of life in small-town Wales and its empathetic approach to character development. Critics have lauded Morris for his ability to depict the intricacies of human relationships and the subtle dynamics of community life. The collection’s success lies in its universal themes, which resonate beyond the specific locale of Caerphilly, making it a relevant and engaging read for a broad audience.
The Somerset Maugham Award and the Wales Book of the Year accolade are testaments to the literary quality and emotional depth of Morris' work. These honors reflect the critical recognition of Morris as a significant new voice in contemporary fiction, capable of capturing the essence of the human experience with both humor and sensitivity.
Conclusion: A Richly Textured Tapestry
Thomas Morris’ "We Don't Know What We're Doing" is a richly textured collection that offers a profound exploration of life in a small Welsh town. Through his skillful storytelling and empathetic character portrayals, Morris invites readers into the lives of his characters, offering a glimpse into their struggles, joys, and the everyday moments that define their existence. This debut collection establishes Morris as a compelling storyteller with a unique voice, poised to make a lasting impact on the literary landscape.
For those interested in exploring these stories further, "We Don't Know What We're Doing" is available through various retailers, and additional information can be found on the author's official website and Faber & Faber (Faber) (Thomas Morris).