Waterland

Waterland, Graham Swift’s sweeping 1983 novel, has a strong sense of regionalism as reflected in its title. This British publication set in a low-lying region of eastern England reads like American gothic fiction, with flawed characters; themes of grotesque, fatalism, and madness; and occasional levity to break the intensity. The main plot chronicles the plights of two intrinsically intertwined but decidedly dissimilar families. Swift’s complex, intriguing characters struggle to navigate their problematic pasts and the present in an ever-shifting landscape rich in history, storytelling, mystery, incest, tragedy, and a dash of magic.

Tom Crick, passionate history teacher and master storyteller, unburdens his soul when his career ends after 32 years. He is sacked when his wife Mary steals a baby from the local supermarket and creates scandal in their corner of London. As Tom addresses his students in his last days at work, he recalls various memories try to make sense of his past, alluding to pertinent historical events along the way.

Waterland, more commonly known as the Fens, is the main setting. The Cricks—Henry, Helen, Dick, and Tom—comprise the primary nuclear family, with the Atkinsons and Metcalfs following close behind.