The Gustav Sonata, by Rose Tremain (2016)
Gustav Perle grew up in poverty in Switzerland in the years at the end of World War II. His father died when he was too young to have any clear memory of him and is mother, whom he adores, is distant and bitter. In kindergarten, Gustav befriends Anton Zweibel, a boy his same age, who is a promising musician.
The novel is written in three parts. In Part One, Gustav and Anton are young boys who are constant companions. Anton’s family, who are wealthy, take Gustav on vacations with them. Emilie, Gustav’s mother is not keen on Anton and his family because they are Jewish. She is bitter because she blames her husband’s death on saving Jews during the War.
Part Two focuses on Emilie and her early life and how she fell in love with Erich Perle. Erich was an Assistant Police Officer. In his position, he helped Jewish refugees into Switzerland after the country had closed its doors. When his actions were discovered, he lost his job and was reduced to finding a menial job with poor pay. Although Emilie loved Erich and called referred to him as a hero, she could never forgive him for plunging the family into poverty.
Gustav and Anton are middle-aged in Part Three. After having been separated for years, each with his own life, the two friends come together again. The bond they formed as children remained strong.
This was a beautifully written novel.
5 Stars
Read: May 28, 2021
