Remains of the Day

Remains of the Day
By Kazuo Ishiguro
Knopf, 1989. 245 pgs. Fiction

Stevens, the narrator of this book, is the perfect English butler. He has worked his whole life to have the traits that he considers to be fundamental to his profession. He takes great pride in his competence, his loyalty, and above all, his dignity. He embarks on a road trip in the latter part of his life and as he does, the memories of his past unfold. He feels satisfaction as he looks back on his life but the reader can't help but feel regret for all the opportunities lost.

It is amazing that Ishiguro can make you feel so much from a narrator that feels and says so little. This novel had very little action but the writing was beautiful and often made you feel and understand more than was said on the page. I admit that at times I found it a little boring but I have thought about it long after I finished the book.

AL