“Kletturinn” is a compelling novel that weaves together past and present, secrets and friendships, and the complexities of human relationships. It revolves around Einar, a man who is forced to confront a dark event from his past that has haunted him for two decades. The novel is divided into several parts, each offering a glimpse into Einar’s life, both in the present day and in the past.
Part 1: The Invitation
The story begins with Einar, a father of three, taking his children to the playground after school. Einar is tired, and his kids are rowdy. When they question him about his job loss, Einar loses his temper, leaving him full of regret. While at the playground, Einar spots his old friend Brynjar, who he thought had moved away to the United States, walking by with his partner, Tina Birna. This unexpected encounter stirs up memories from their youth when their best friend Ágúst tragically died on a camping trip. Brynjar and Tina Birna don’t notice Einar, who hides behind a jungle gym.
Back home, Einar discovers an invitation to Brynjar and Tina Birna’s wedding. The wedding will take place at “Paradísarlundur,” their new country estate, near the fjord where Gúi had died. Einar is torn between thinking Brynjar might want to make amends for the past or is attempting to threaten him.
Part 2: Love, Curiosity, Art
Part 2 takes us back to the years following Gúi’s death. Einar reflects on his life in Berlin, his strained relationship with his father, and his return to Iceland. He meets Embla, and their spontaneous trip to Paris deepens their connection. Einar’s past is intertwined with his current life as he grapples with the weight of his secrets and regrets.
Part 3: The Camping Trip
Part 3 transports us to August 2002 when Einar, Gúi, and Brynjar embarked on a fateful camping trip. As they journey to Hvalfjörður, tensions rise, and it becomes clear that their futures are taking different paths. Gúi plans to study in Paris, Brynjar in California, while Einar feels left behind. The trip takes a dark turn when Einar has a bad trip after taking shrooms. A heated argument between Gúi and Brynjar and a flat tire leads to Einar’s violent act – he pushes Gúi off a cliff.
Part 4: The Treasure Finder
Returning to the present, Einar lives a seemingly idyllic life with his family. He goes on vacations, celebrates his children’s birthdays, and relishes in the joys of parenthood. Einar experiences moments of happiness but is haunted by his past.
Part 5: The Future
As Einar tries to move on with his life, he runs into Tina Birna while grocery shopping. She carries a child that strikingly resembles Brynjar. A coffee shop meeting reveals that Tina Birna knows the truth about the camping trip – that Einar killed Gúi. However, her demeanor is not one of hatred or revenge, leaving Einar baffled.
“Kletturinn” explores themes of guilt, friendship, secrets, and the enduring impact of past actions on one’s present and future. Einar’s journey to reconcile with his past and find redemption is at the heart of the story. The novel delves into the complexities of human relationships and the profound impact of decisions made in one’s youth. The past and present intertwine to create a story that is both thought-provoking and emotionally charged, ultimately forcing Einar to confront the demons of his past and find a way to move forward.