Irish author Sebastian Barry discussed his latest novel in an interview. The novel addresses the abuse of children within the Catholic Church in Ireland during the 20th century. Barry said the book will not heal anyone and there is no reconciliation, but it might offer some comfort.
He explained that a family member was abused during his childhood, causing lifelong suffering, and writing the book allowed him to view the event from a different perspective. Barry noted that Ireland has historically been influenced by the Catholic Church, with recent criticism over abuse and mistreatment in church-run schools. He described the work on the book as initially daunting but became easier once he committed to it.
the book will not heal anyone and there is no reconciliation, but it can offer some comfort
Barry also mentioned that many survivors dislike the term 'abuse' for being too vague, so he aimed to be very specific in the novel.
a family member was abused during his childhood, causing lifelong suffering, and writing the book allowed him to view the event from a different perspective
Ireland has historically been influenced by the Catholic Church, with recent criticism over abuse and mistreatment in church-run schools
many survivors dislike the term 'abuse' for being too vague, so he aimed to be very specific in the book