In 'The Gap of Time,' Jeanette Winterson reimagines Shakespeare's 'The Winter's Tale' within a contemporary setting, weaving themes of jealousy, redemption, and the passage of time. The narrative unfolds in a post-apocalyptic landscape where characters grapple with the consequences of their past actions. At its heart is a lost baby, a father's despair, and the hope for reconciliation that transcends time and space. Winterson's lyrical prose invites readers to ponder the poignant connections between past and present, love and betrayal. This novel is not just a retelling—it's a profound exploration of how we create meaning from our experiences and seek second chances.
By Jeanette Winterson
Published: 2016
""Time is a kind of storytelling, and every moment holds the potential for renewal and change.""
The Winter’s Tale is one of Shakespeare’s “late plays.” It tells the story of a king whose jealousy results in the banishment of his baby daughter and the death of his beautiful wife. His daughter is found and brought up by a shepherd on the Bohemian coast, but through a series of extraordinary events, father and daughter, and eventually mother too, are reunited. In The Gap of Time, Jeanette Winterson’s cover version of The Winter’s Tale, we move from London, a city reeling after the 2008 financial crisis, to a storm-ravaged American city called New Bohemia. Her story is one of childhood friendship, money, status, technology and the elliptical nature of time. Written with energy and wit, this is a story of the consuming power of jealousy on the one hand, and redemption and the enduring love of a lost child on the other.
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“"Time is a kind of storytelling, and every moment holds the potential for renewal and change."”
The Gap of Time
By Jeanette Winterson
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Jeanette Winterson is a renowned British author known for her innovative and poignant storytelling. Born on 27th August 1959 in Manchester, England, Winterson gained prominence with her debut novel, 'Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit' (1985), a semi-autobiographical work that explores themes of sexuality, identity, and the clash between personal truth and societal expectations. Her notable works include 'Written on the Body' (1992), 'The Passion' (1987), and 'Why Be Happy When You Could Be Normal?' (2011), which delve into the complexities of love, desire, and the human experience. Winterson's writing style is characterized by its lyrical prose, rich imagery, and a blending of myth and reality, often challenging conventional narrative structures and exploring feminist and queer themes. She is an influential voice in contemporary literature, recognized for her contributions to discussions around gender and sexuality.
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