Recently, while reading a 2024 novel by Leif Enger, I discovered a passing reference to another book I knew. That reminded me once again how, as authors, we never know what a reader will actually home in on—and it might well be something completely different than what we intended to emphasize.
I Cheerfully Refuse is a dystopian novel with a surprisingly hopeful ending. The main character takes us on a rambling (and somewhat disjointed) tour around Lake Superior by sailboat, and when we first join him onboard (page 109) he lists the seven books that survived years of neglect by the previous owner. “Seven is not many books with which to go to sea,” the narrator reminds us, and the last item is probably what Enger considers most important: an unpublished novel that is so key to his story, he uses its title as his own.
But my own eyes stopped short well before that, when I recognized the third listing: Handbook of Knots by Des Pawson.
I have never met Mr. Pawson, but I’ve heard a lot about him and his book from his daughter Gael, a friend and former colleague. I knew the 2004 publication had attracted an audience well outside its UK home, but it still seemed like an incredible coincidence to find it listed as one of only seven books on a fictional Upper Peninsula sailboat. Is this true fame then? (Gael herself was not really surprised: “He gets everywhere!”)
Despite its refreshingly hopeful take on what might happen once society completely breaks down (and its wonderful title), I can’t wholeheartedly recommend I Cheerfully Refuse. Maybe it’s the dystopian way, but for me the story wandered too far off track to be truly gripping. I can, however, definitely recommend the surprises we sometimes find when we dive into books—especially when they are completely different from what the author really wants us to notice.
Have you ever found something unexpectedly familiar that distracts you from the author’s intent? Share it in the comments below, or send me an email; I really enjoy our discussions. Meanwhile thanks for being here, and see you next Thursday.
