Frode Grytten; translated by Alison McCullough
The Ferryman and His Wife by Frode Grytten, translated from the Norwegian by Alison McCullough, is a short, profound, and captivating novel unfolding in lyrical and deeply moving diction. It infuses magical realism with a ferryman’s journey on the Norwegian fjords.
On the morning of November 18, Nils Vik opens his eyes knowing that today he will die. He goes through his usual morning routine and heads for his boat as he does every morning. Nils is a ferryman. He has spent decades transporting passengers to and from the various fjords. As he gets in his boat for this, his last trip, he is joined by his now dead dog, Luna.
Nils has a simplicity of spirit and quiet charm. He navigates his way across the fjords he knows so well. He is heading out to sea. Along the way, he stops to pick up now deceased former passengers to join him on his journey. He refers to his logbooks and his memory to introduce the passengers and provide their backstories. Although described in a few short pages, each passenger emerges as a complex, unique, and intriguing human being. And each is portrayed with delicacy and sensitivity. The passengers reveal the circumstances of their deaths. As Nils listens with respect and without judgment to their stories, he contemplates the meaning of life. But his focus is on picking up one last passenger, the love of his life, his now deceased wife, Marta.
Set against the stunning Norwegian landscape, the impact of this hauntingly profound meditation on life will linger long after the last page is read. A quiet novel, beautifully translated and packing emotional depth.
Highly recommended.