Book: Umbrella

"Umbrella" by Will Self is a complex, ambitious novel that delves into the intricacies of the human mind. The story intertwines the lives of multiple characters across different time periods, primarily focusing on Dr. Zack Busner, a psychiatrist in 1971 London. Busner becomes captivated by the case of Audrey Death, a woman who has been in a catatonic state since the aftermath of the First World War due to encephalitis lethargica. As Busner seeks to awaken her using an experimental drug, the narrative seamlessly shifts through time, tracing Audrey’s vibrant life before her illness and exploring the profound effects of war and industrialization. Self's stream-of-consciousness style challenges readers to engage deeply with the characters' inner worlds, offering a fragmented yet compelling tapestry of thoughts and experiences. "Umbrella" is a bold exploration of memory, identity, and the relentless passage of time, showcasing Self's linguistic prowess and his ability to capture the dislocated realities of the 20th century.