There is always the danger of reading too much into a book. That is a danger that I dont believe exists with The Remains of the Day, one of the most beautifully written contemporary novels. The Remains of the Day is the story of Stevens, an English butler in post-World War II England. In beautiful understatement, Ishiguro explores the themes of the novel: What is the meaning of professionalism in todays society? How much should one sacrifice in order to remain true to his own personal ethics? Ishiguro weaves quiet comedy and tragedy in this deceptively simple tale, but always preserves a strong undercurrent of psychological motivation and tension. In beautiful, crystal clear prose, he tells the tale of one mans interpretation of his place in society. The fading class system also serves as a metaphor for the fading glory of the insular world of postwar England. If yourre looking for a John Grisham breakneck plot, skip this book. If you want literature at its finest, you cant do better than this.
