Alexander Baron
The Lowlife
The Lowlife
Interesting read written in 1963. Story revolves around a gambler living in Dalston (Hackney) who befriends a family living below him. Touches various themes including the addictive nature of gambling and how this guy just about keeps head above water. The other main theme is his relationship with the family especially the 4 year old kid who sees him somewhat as a hero compared to his bickering parents. His relationships with the adults is also weaved into his story. Then there's the relationship with his sister and her husband who are well off as work hard and don't lose money on the dogs. There's his casual relationships with women and then memories of a past love in pre war Paris. Excellent descriptions of his world including Dalston and East End places which I know (somewhat). The main character is Jewish (as is the author) and that comes out in the novel as a lot of Yiddish words pepper the book. Recommended.
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