Let's dive into the world of Robert Forster's latest literary endeavor, a novel that, unfortunately, falls flat despite its promising premise.
The Premise
Forster, a renowned musician and writer, takes us on a journey with his characters, Mick and Drew, two musicians on the run from the law in central Queensland. With a unique setting and an intriguing storyline, the novel seemed poised to offer a captivating read.
A Disappointing Execution
However, the execution of this novel leaves much to be desired. The narrative, despite its potential, fails to deliver on the promise of a "comic odyssey" or "crime thriller." The story feels more like a meandering road trip, lacking the rhythm and melody one would expect from a tale about musicians.
One of the most striking aspects is the absence of emotional depth. The characters, though described as "rock-star-wrecked handsome," remain superficial, and their journey feels devoid of genuine emotion. It's as if the author is merely going through the motions, ticking off expected events like impromptu gigs and drug-induced escapades, without infusing them with any real feeling.
Lack of Evocative Writing
The writing itself is a missed opportunity. Despite Forster's experience and knowledge of music, the prose fails to capture the essence of music-making. The passages about songwriting and music feel contrived and lack the evocative power one would hope for. It's almost ironic that a novel about musicians lacks any real melody in its writing.
Editor's Oversight
The editor's role in this novel is also worth noting. Some of the sentences that made it to print are cringe-worthy, with awkward descriptions and clunky phrasing. It's as if the editor, in their zeal to let Forster's voice shine, overlooked the basic principles of good writing.
Saving Graces
That said, the novel isn't without its redeeming qualities. Forster's ability to capture Australian scenes and locales is impressive, offering a glimpse into the country's past. These passages provide a much-needed respite from the lackluster dialogue and exposition-heavy sections.
Final Thoughts
In my opinion, "Songwriters on the Run" is a missed opportunity. With its promising premise and Forster's musical background, one would expect a rich and engaging read. However, the novel falls short, leaving readers with a sense of disappointment. It's a reminder that even the most talented artists can have off days, and that sometimes, the best-laid plans don't always result in a masterpiece.
Despite its flaws, the novel does offer a glimpse into the creative process and the life of musicians, which might appeal to audiophiles and fans of Forster's work. But for those seeking a truly captivating read, this novel might leave them feeling a little flat.
