Bartlett, Neil. Ready To Catch Him Should He Fall.
Dutton. Sept. 1991. c.320p. ISBN 0-525-933350-6. $19.95
[FICTION]
British director and playwright, Bartlett's first novel
is a passionate, erotic story between an older man,
"O," and his younger lover, "Boy." Taking
place in an unnamed town in Britain at an undefined time, the
story chronicles their courtship, the consummation of their
relationship, and their eventual living arrangement. Hovering
about is the mysterious "Mother," the proprietor of the
local pub that the two lovers frequent. Responsible for
introducing the two, she plays the role of protector, provider,
and sage, encouraging and watching with satisfaction as their
love deepens. The story has a small, chilling subplot involving
unprovoked, random attacks on gay men, but it ends with a
satisfying twist. A fairly engaging novel, and quite ordinary in
that it is told with no apologies and no stereotypes, and for
once has no one dying of AIDS. Though AIDS is a serious problem
in the community, Bartlett should be commended for addressing and
acknowledging HIV-negative men. Recommended.
Kevin M. Roddy, Oakland Public Library, California