42 pages • 1 hour read
At Swim-Two-Birds
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Book Brief
239
Novel • Fiction
Dublin, Ireland • 1930s
1939
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
At Swim-Two-Birds by Flann O'Brien tells the story of an unnamed Dublin student writing a novel about fictional characters who conspire against their author, Dermot Trellis. The student's life serves as a framing device, with his manuscript intertwining stories about a Pooka, a fictional man named John Furriskey, and the folklore hero Finn Mac Cool. The characters eventually rebel, seeking freedom from Trellis's control. The book portrays scenes of sexual violence.
Humorous
Mysterious
Playful
Fantastical
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
14,104 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
At Swim-Two-Birds by Flann O'Brien is praised for its inventive narrative and witty, metafictional style. While some find the complex structure disorienting, it is celebrated for its originality and humor. The novel’s layered storytelling captivates readers who appreciate unconventional plots, though it may challenge those seeking straightforward narratives.
Who Should Read At Swim-Two-Birds?
A reader who enjoys At Swim-Two-Birds by Flann O'Brien appreciates metafiction, dark humor, and Irish literature. Fans of James Joyce's Ulysses and Samuel Beckett's Waiting for Godot will be drawn to O'Brien's inventive narrative and whimsical storytelling. Ideal for those intrigued by literary experimentation and postmodern themes.
14,104 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
John Furriskey
John Furriskey
A character created by Dermot Trellis for his Western novel, who struggles with his predetermined nature and desires more autonomy.
Dermot Trellis
Dermot Trellis
A writer of Western pulp novels within the story, who exercises authoritarian control over his characters and faces rebellion from them.
239
Novel • Fiction
Dublin, Ireland • 1930s
1939
Adult
18+ years
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