51 pages 1 hour read

James Kelman

How Late It Was, How Late

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1994

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

How Late It Was, How Late by James Kelman follows the life of Sammy, a working-class Glaswegian who loses his sight after an altercation with police following a drinking spree. The novel depicts Sammy's struggle to adapt to his new reality, seek disability benefits, and navigate a hostile environment while facing social and bureaucratic challenges. The narrative employs a distinctive stream-of-consciousness style and Glaswegian dialect. The source material includes depictions of police violence, substance abuse, and ableism against people with sight loss.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

James Kelman's How Late It Was, How Late garners mixed reactions. Praised for its authentic Glaswegian dialect and compelling portrayal of struggle, it immerses readers in the protagonist's psyche. However, its dense vernacular and meandering plot challenge readability. Critics acknowledge its literary merit but caution that its style may not appeal to all.

Who should read this

Who Should Read How Late It Was, How Late?

A reader who enjoys gritty noir, stream-of-consciousness narratives, and emotionally complex characters would appreciate James Kelman’s How Late It Was, How Late. Comparable to Irvine Welsh's Trainspotting and Samuel Beckett’s Molloy, it appeals to those inclined towards raw, authentic depictions of working-class life.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Themes

Values/Ideas: Literature

Society: Class

Identity: Disability

Genre

Mystery / Crime Fiction

British Literature

Modern Classic Fiction

Topics

History: World