This novel is an engaging, albeit perplexing and disconcerting read, leaving readers with a bittersweet aftertaste. Primarily, the book delves into Walden’s exploration of his identity through the lens of seven ‘fathers’ he encountered over seven years, all while his mother remains an enigmatic figure, relegated to the role of ‘just a mother.’ This examination inadvertently perpetuates the misogyny inherited from these fathers. Notably, Walden’s disinterest in his mother’s inner life remains a glaring omission throughout.
The narrative vividly portrays the tumultuous upbringing of a young Walden, navigating the transition from ’70s collectivism to ’80s self-indulgence in Sweden. Each ‘father’ is uniquely eccentric, like the mushroom expert with a penchant for violence. Walden’s pursuit of his presumed Amerindian biological father adds intrigue.
Amid the frequent relocations, the family’s reunion in a comfortable apartment briefly stabilizes their life. Nevertheless, the mother’s pattern of relationships with violent men persists, raising questions about the underlying causes. The absence of names in the book, using epithets like ‘the smoker’ and ‘the killer,’ adds an intriguing layer.
As Walden and his mother find some stability, a drug-addicted partner jeopardizes their safety, leading to further relocations. Later, a possessive car mechanic disrupts their lives. The contradiction between Walden’s perceived working-class upbringing and his Steiner school background is never addressed, and his pursuit of sexual and romantic interests emerges.
Walden employs a meta style, with a humorous tone, occasionally verging on superficiality, that fails to humanize the characters effectively. However, his descriptions of the era, music, fashion, and intimate moments with friends are captivating.
The book concludes with a poignant metafictional twist as Walden anticipates a reunion with his biological father, leaving readers hanging on an unresolved note. A friend in the narrative expresses disappointment at this ending, to which Walden agrees, leaving readers with a sense of longing.