A few weeks ago a review in The Spectator praised books ‘books which have their own linguistic microclimate’; first person narratives where (after a period of jarring alteration) you find yourself thoroughly immersed in the world as seen by another deeply realised personality. The Remains of the Day is a beautifully realised example of this.
The story takes place along two timelines – in July 1956 ageing butler Stevens is on a motoring holiday to visit Miss Kenton, and on his way he reflects on his life and experience. That, however, does not come close to the heart of this novel, which is centrally concerned with Stevens himself, and his own relationships with his employer, his occupation, and (eventually) Miss Kenton herself.
