Great Literature Discussion: At Swim-Two-Birds by Flann O’Brien (Online)

This 1939 novel tells the story of a college student who lives with his curmudgeonly uncle in Dublin. When not in bed or reading, he is composing a novel about a second-rate author, Trellis, whose characters ultimately rebel against him. Figures of Irish myth make Trellis pay for his bad writing. Hilariously funny and inventive, this is a masterpiece of Irish literature, included in Time magazine’s list of the 100 best English-language novels from 1923 to 2005.

Literary works will be discussed based on what can be found in the text in order to enrich each other’s interpretation of the novel/novella. All are welcome to join and any edition or translation of the book under discussion can be used. Read the work in advance and be prepared to discuss the aspects of interest to you by referring to specific related text and reading it to the group. Moderated by Ethical NYC member Gunther Tielemans.

For complete access information, including Meeting ID, please see this week’s Ethical Weekly email or contact Gunther.

You can download Zoom at https://zoom.us/download, although it’s not necessary to do ahead of time. Zoom is available for tablets and smartphones in both main app stores, Apple and Google Android. Attendees don’t need to register for a Zoom account although it’s free and helpful. To join a meeting, simply click the event’s invitation link above.