Intimacy (novel)
Intimacy is a 1998 novel by Hanif Kureishi. The novel explores the inner thoughts of a middle-aged man contemplating leaving his wife and two young sons.
Plot summary
Set in contemporary London, the story tells why the protagonist wants to leave his family. The events of the novel unfold over approximately 24 hours.He has lived with his partner for six years and has known her for ten. He is unhappy in his relationship and has had several affairs.
His young lover one day says to him, "If you want me, I'm here". He spends 24 hours reflecting on his relationships with his wife, sons, friends and lover.
Major themes
The themes of the book include:- Old family constructs in a modern society.
- Sexual desires versus intellectual desires.