Bernardine Evaristo Reflects on Mr Loverman Ahead of BBC Adaptation
- The author explores the life of Barrington, a closeted gay man married for 50 years, who is involved in a long-term affair.
- The narrative delves into Barrington's internal conflict as he considers leaving his marriage to live openly.
- The work challenges societal norms and celebrates enduring love, emphasizing the importance of character depth and perspective.
In the context of the upcoming BBC adaptation of a novel, the author reflects on the complexities of her character, Barrington, a closeted gay man in his seventies. Living a double life, he has been married to his deeply religious wife, Carmel, for 50 years while maintaining a long-term affair with his lover, Morris. The narrative explores Barrington's internal struggles as he faces the potential collapse of his marriage and the fear of embracing his true identity. The author emphasizes the importance of personal context, drawing from her experiences with Caribbean culture, which informs her writing. The novel challenges societal norms surrounding sexuality, culture, and aging, ultimately celebrating the enduring love between two men despite the obstacles they face. The author also acknowledges the need to give voice to other characters, like Carmel, to present a more balanced perspective on the story.