Novelist Alex Michaelides (The Silent Patient, The Fury) joins Andy and John to discuss Ford Madox Ford's classic novel The Good Soldier (1915), a tale of passion in which, owing to a narrator of almost comic unreliability, nothing can be taken for granted. It is a book that seems to change on every reading, both a kaleidoscopic psychological drama and 'the saddest story I have ever heard'. During his lifetime 'Fordie' was, variously, a prolific author, a publisher of historical note, a notable polyamorist and a serial liar; we consider the extent to which the character of John Dowell in The Good Soldier may be considered a self-portrait.

This episode was recorded live on stage at Foyles, Charing Cross Road in London on the evening of 15th May 2024 and is the first date of a monthly residency. Tickets for the 12th June show, on the subject of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, are available now here.

Books mentioned
Ford Maddox Ford - The Good Soldier; Parade’s End
Alex Michaelides - The Silent Patient; The Fury

Other links
Alex Michaelides Website - https://www.alexmichaelides.com/
Foyles Backlisted Live Event 12th June Tickets - https://www.foyles.co.uk/events/backlisted-sir-gawain-and-the-green-knight