That They May Face the Rising Sun
The novel portrays a year in the life of a rural lakeside community, employing a unique and somewhat deceptive narrative structure devoid of traditional chapters or breaks.The novel introduces a wide array of characters, such as Joe and Kate Ruttledge, who have relocated to Ireland from London in pursuit of a different life.Additionally, readers encounter John Quinn, a character driven by unwavering determination in his pursuit of romantic interests, Johnny, who left for England two decades earlier in search of love, and Jimmy Joe McKiernan, who holds the dual roles of an auctioneer and an undertaker, while also heading the local IRA.The community's spirit is embodied by the gentle Jamesie and his wife Mary, who, though they have never left the lake, possess an intimate knowledge of everything that has ever stirred or moved in their surroundings.[6] As the narrative unfolds, the drama of a year in the lives of these and many other characters comes to life through their actions, the rituals of work, religious observances, and leisure activities.