Long Island

by Colm Tóibín • 2024 • 294 pages

3.73

62.0K ratings

Historical Fiction Ireland Book Club

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Plot Summary

Unexpected Visitor Brings Shocking News

A stranger delivers devastating news

Eilis Lacey, an Irish immigrant living in Long Island with her Italian-American husband Tony and their two children, is confronted by an unexpected visitor. The man, an Irishman, claims that his wife is pregnant with Tony's child and threatens to leave the baby on Eilis's doorstep once it's born. This revelation shatters Eilis's world, forcing her to confront the possibility of betrayal and the implications it holds for her family.

Eilis Faces a Life-Altering Decision

Eilis grapples with her options

In the wake of the shocking news, Eilis is left to ponder her next steps. The prospect of raising another woman's child is daunting, and she struggles with feelings of betrayal and anger towards Tony. Eilis must decide whether to confront Tony, seek solace in her family, or find a way to navigate this crisis on her own. Her internal conflict is compounded by the isolation she feels in a country that still feels foreign to her.

Family Tensions and Hidden Secrets

Family dynamics complicate matters

The revelation of Tony's infidelity brings underlying family tensions to the surface. Eilis's relationship with her in-laws becomes strained as she navigates the complex web of family loyalties and expectations. Her mother-in-law, Francesca, is both a source of support and a reminder of the cultural differences that separate Eilis from her husband's family. Eilis is forced to confront the reality that her marriage may not be as solid as she once believed.

Eilis's Inner Turmoil and Isolation

Eilis struggles with isolation

As Eilis grapples with the implications of the visitor's news, she finds herself increasingly isolated. Her once-comfortable life is now filled with uncertainty and doubt. Eilis reflects on her past decisions, including her move to America and her marriage to Tony, questioning whether she made the right choices. Her sense of isolation is exacerbated by the lack of a support system, as she feels unable to confide in her family or friends.

Confrontations and Unspoken Truths

Eilis confronts Tony and herself

Eilis finally confronts Tony about the visitor's claims, seeking answers and clarity. The conversation is fraught with tension, as both Eilis and Tony grapple with the unspoken truths that have come to light. Eilis must decide whether to forgive Tony and attempt to rebuild their life together or to take a different path. The confrontation forces Eilis to confront her own feelings and the reality of her situation, leading to a moment of introspection and self-discovery.

Secrets Unravel in Quiet Bar

Jim encounters Eilis's brother Martin

In a quiet bar, Jim, a local pub owner, encounters Martin Lacey, Eilis's brother, who shares that Eilis has returned from America and is staying alone at his house in Cush. This news stirs old feelings in Jim, who once had a romantic connection with Eilis. As Martin leaves, Jim is left with a sense of nostalgia and loss, contemplating the possibility of reconnecting with Eilis after all these years.

Eilis's Past and Present Collide

Eilis revisits old memories

Eilis, back in her hometown, is overwhelmed by memories and the stark contrast between her past life in Ireland and her current life in America. She reflects on her marriage to Tony and the complexities of her feelings for Jim, whom she left behind. As she navigates her family dynamics and the expectations placed upon her, Eilis is forced to confront her unresolved emotions and the choices that lie ahead.

Unexpected Engagement Shocks Eilis

Nancy announces engagement to Jim

Nancy, a widow and Eilis's old friend, unexpectedly announces her engagement to Jim, leaving Eilis stunned. This revelation complicates Eilis's feelings, as she grapples with the reality of Jim moving on and the implications it has for her own life. The engagement becomes the talk of the town, adding pressure on Eilis to decide her next steps.

Eilis's Dilemma: Love or Loyalty

Eilis faces a difficult choice

Torn between her lingering feelings for Jim and her responsibilities to her family in America, Eilis struggles to make a decision. Her brother Jack offers to help her buy a house, providing her with a sense of independence. However, the news of Jim's engagement forces Eilis to reevaluate her priorities and consider what truly matters to her.

Nancy's Bold Move Changes Everything

Nancy takes control of the narrative

Determined to secure her future with Jim, Nancy boldly announces their engagement to the town, leaving no room for doubt. Her actions are strategic, ensuring that Eilis hears the news and understands that Jim is no longer available. Nancy's decisive move shifts the dynamics, leaving Eilis to reconsider her plans and the possibility of rekindling her relationship with Jim.

Jim's Heart Divided Between Two

Jim struggles with his feelings

Caught between his past love for Eilis and his current commitment to Nancy, Jim is torn. He reflects on his life in Enniscorthy and the possibility of starting anew in America with Eilis. As he contemplates his future, Jim must decide whether to follow his heart or honor his engagement to Nancy, knowing that his choice will have lasting consequences.

Eilis's Future: Uncertain Paths Ahead

Eilis contemplates her next move

With her mother's unexpected decision to join her in America and the complexities of her relationship with Jim unresolved, Eilis faces an uncertain future. She must navigate her responsibilities to her family, her career, and her own desires. As she prepares to return to America, Eilis is left to ponder the paths before her and the choices that will define her life.

Characters

Eilis Lacey

Resilient yet conflicted protagonist

Eilis is an Irish immigrant who has built a life in Long Island with her husband Tony and their children. She is faced with a life-altering decision when she learns of Tony's infidelity. Eilis is a complex character, torn between her love for her family and her sense of betrayal. Her journey is one of self-discovery as she navigates the challenges of her marriage and her identity in a foreign land.

Tony Fiorello

Charming but flawed husband

Tony is Eilis's Italian-American husband, whose infidelity threatens to unravel their family. He is a skilled plumber and a devoted father, but his actions have put his marriage at risk. Tony's character is marked by his charm and affability, but also by his inability to fully grasp the consequences of his actions. His relationship with Eilis is tested as they confront the fallout of his betrayal.

Francesca Fiorello

Supportive yet traditional mother-in-law

Francesca is Tony's mother and Eilis's mother-in-law. She is a strong-willed woman who values family above all else. Francesca's relationship with Eilis is complex, as she offers support but also represents the cultural differences that Eilis struggles with. Francesca's traditional views and loyalty to her family add another layer of tension to the unfolding drama.

The Irishman

Catalyst for the unfolding drama

The Irishman is a mysterious figure who arrives at Eilis's doorstep with shocking news. His presence serves as the catalyst for the events that follow, forcing Eilis to confront the reality of her marriage. The Irishman's motivations and background remain largely unknown, adding an element of intrigue and uncertainty to the story.

Jim Farrell

Caught in a love triangle

Jim is a pub owner in Enniscorthy who finds himself torn between his past love for Eilis and his engagement to Nancy. His internal conflict is marked by his desire for a new beginning with Eilis and his sense of duty to Nancy, leaving him at a crossroads in his life.

Nancy Sheridan

Determined and strategic widow

Nancy is a widow who boldly announces her engagement to Jim, securing her future and asserting control over the narrative. Her actions are driven by a desire for stability and companionship, as well as a need to protect her own interests in the face of Eilis's return.

Martin Lacey

Eilis's brother and confidant

Martin is Eilis's brother who provides her with a place to stay upon her return to Ireland. He serves as a link to her past and a source of support as she navigates the complexities of her emotions and relationships.

Jack Lacey

Successful yet distant brother

Jack is Eilis's brother who offers her financial support to gain independence. His success contrasts with the struggles of his siblings, and his offer to help Eilis reflects his desire to maintain family ties despite the distance.

Plot Devices

Infidelity and Betrayal

Central theme driving the narrative

The revelation of Tony's infidelity is the central plot device that drives the narrative forward. It forces Eilis to confront her feelings of betrayal and question the foundation of her marriage. This theme is explored through Eilis's internal conflict and her interactions with her family, highlighting the complexities of love, trust, and forgiveness.

Love Triangle

Central conflict driving the narrative

The love triangle between Eilis, Jim, and Nancy is the central plot device that propels the story forward. It highlights the complexities of love, loyalty, and the choices that define one's life, forcing the characters to confront their true desires and the consequences of their actions.

Cultural and Familial Expectations

Tension between tradition and individuality

The story explores the tension between cultural and familial expectations and individual desires. Eilis's struggle to navigate her role as a wife and mother in a traditional Italian-American family is a key plot device. This tension is mirrored in her interactions with her in-laws and her own reflections on her identity as an Irish immigrant.

Isolation and Self-Discovery

Eilis's journey of introspection

Eilis's sense of isolation and her journey of self-discovery are important plot devices that shape her character development. As she grapples with the fallout of Tony's betrayal, Eilis is forced to confront her own feelings and desires. This introspection leads to moments of clarity and self-awareness, driving the narrative towards its resolution.

Analysis

Exploration of identity and belonging

"Long Island" by Colm Tóibín delves into the complexities of identity, belonging, and the choices that define our lives. Through Eilis's journey, the novel explores the tension between cultural expectations and personal desires, highlighting the challenges of navigating relationships and self-discovery in a rapidly changing world. The story underscores the importance of introspection and the courage to confront one's true feelings, ultimately suggesting that the path to fulfillment lies in embracing one's authentic self and making choices that align with one's values and aspirations.

Last updated: March 23, 2025

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FAQ

Synopsis & Basic Details

What is Long Island about?

Synopsis focuses Eilis's dilemma: The novel centers on Eilis Lacey, an Irish immigrant in 1970s Long Island, whose life is upended by the news of her husband Tony's infidelity and the impending arrival of his illegitimate child.
Explores themes of choice : Eilis must navigate complex family dynamics, cultural expectations, and her own desires as she grapples with the decision of whether to stay in her marriage or forge a new path.
Emotional resonance and wit : The story promises a blend of emotional depth and Tóibín's characteristic wit, exploring themes of longing, regret, and the search for belonging in a new country.

Why should I read Long Island?

Masterful storytelling and prose : Colm Tóibín is celebrated for his elegant prose and insightful character portrayals, promising a compelling and emotionally resonant reading experience.
Exploration of complex themes : The novel delves into universal themes of marriage, infidelity, cultural identity, and the search for personal fulfillment, offering rich material for reflection and discussion.
Character-driven narrative : Readers who enjoy stories focused on the inner lives and relationships of complex characters will find themselves drawn to Eilis's journey and the challenges she faces.

What is the background of Long Island?

Setting in 1976 : The novel is set in Lindenhurst, Long Island, in the spring of 1976, providing a specific historical and cultural context for Eilis's experiences as an Irish immigrant.
Italian-American community : The Fiorello family's close-knit Italian-American community on Long Island shapes Eilis's social environment and highlights the cultural differences she navigates.
Post-Immigration experience : The story explores the challenges and complexities of immigrant life in America, including feelings of isolation, cultural adaptation, and the search for belonging.

What are the most memorable quotes in Long Island?

Francesca's sly humor: "Another man is the last thing I need," Eilis said. "Who are you talking to?" Francesca replied. This exchange reveals Francesca's intelligence and sly humor, highlighting the complex dynamic between Eilis and her mother-in-law.
The Irishman's aggressive declaration: "So as soon as this little bastard is born, I am transporting it here. And if you are not at home, then I will hand it to that other woman. And if there's no one at all in any of the houses you people own, I'll leave it right here on your doorstep." This quote encapsulates the central conflict and the aggressive determination of the Irishman, setting the stage for Eilis's dilemma.
Eilis's firm stance: "There are no circumstances under which I am going to look after a baby. It is your business, not mine." This quote demonstrates Eilis's resolve and her refusal to be burdened by Tony's actions, highlighting her growing sense of independence.

What writing style, narrative choices, and literary techniques does Colm Tóibín use?

Interiority and psychological realism : Tóibín excels at exploring the inner lives of his characters, using stream-of-consciousness and detailed descriptions of their thoughts and feelings to create a sense of psychological realism.
Restrained prose and subtle emotional cues : Tóibín's writing style is often characterized by its restraint, with emotions conveyed through subtle cues in dialogue and character interactions rather than overt displays of sentimentality.
Focus on character relationships : The novel emphasizes the complexities of human relationships, exploring the dynamics between Eilis and her husband, her in-laws, and other characters in her life.

Hidden Details & Subtle Connections

What are some minor details that add significant meaning?

Larry's Naples obsession : Larry's fascination with Naples, despite being born in America, foreshadows Eilis's own longing for "home" and the complex relationship between identity and place.
Eilis's bargain with Larry: Eilis giving up smoking if Larry stops highlights her maternal concern and willingness to sacrifice, but also foreshadows the larger sacrifices she may have to make.
Rosella's seriousness : Rosella's seriousness and preference for solitude, contrasted with her cousins' boisterousness, hints at a deeper understanding of the complexities of life and foreshadows her support for Eilis's difficult decisions.

What are some subtle foreshadowing and callbacks?

Francesca's initial question: Francesca's question about "another man" when the Irishman arrives foreshadows the disruption to Eilis's marriage and the potential for new romantic possibilities.
Tony's stories about leaks: Tony's detailed stories about fixing leaks in other people's homes, initially presented as humorous anecdotes, foreshadow the "leak" in his own marriage and the hidden infidelity.
Eilis's memory of Rose: Eilis's recollection of her sister Rose taking control in crises foreshadows her own need to find inner strength and make difficult decisions in the face of adversity.

What are some unexpected character connections?

Frank's secret : Frank's homosexuality, revealed in a hushed conversation, creates a bond of shared secrecy and understanding between him and Eilis, despite their different personalities.
Mr. Dakessian's Armenian history : Mr. Dakessian's sharing of Armenian history with Eilis creates a connection based on shared experiences of displacement and cultural identity, despite their different backgrounds.
Nancy and Eilis's shared history: Nancy and Eilis's shared history as friends and rivals in Enniscorthy adds complexity to their dynamic, as they navigate their feelings for Jim and their own desires for happiness.

Who are the most significant supporting characters?

Francesca's complex support: Francesca, while seemingly traditional, offers Eilis a nuanced form of support, navigating cultural differences and family loyalties in a way that both challenges and comforts Eilis.
Frank's legal advice : Frank, as a lawyer, provides Eilis with practical advice and a glimpse into the legal ramifications of her situation, highlighting the limitations of the law in resolving personal dilemmas.
Mr. Dakessian's quiet wisdom : Mr. Dakessian, the Armenian garage owner, offers Eilis a sense of community and understanding, providing her with a job and a space to reflect on her own identity and belonging.

Psychological, Emotional, & Relational Analysis

What are some unspoken motivations of the characters?

Tony's need for validation: Tony's infidelity may stem from a need for validation and attention, particularly within the context of his close-knit Italian-American family and his desire to be seen as successful.
Francesca's desire for control: Francesca's involvement in the situation may be driven by a desire to maintain control over her family and ensure its stability, even if it means manipulating events behind the scenes.
Jim's longing for the past: Jim's continued bachelorhood and his lingering feelings for Eilis suggest a deep-seated longing for the past and a reluctance to fully embrace the present.

What psychological complexities do the characters exhibit?

Eilis's internal conflict: Eilis's struggle to reconcile her Irish identity with her American life, her desire for independence with her loyalty to her family, and her feelings for Tony with her attraction to Jim creates a complex psychological portrait of a woman grappling with conflicting desires.
Tony's guilt and denial: Tony's behavior after the Irishman's visit suggests a mix of guilt, denial, and a desire to avoid confrontation, highlighting his emotional immaturity and his inability to fully acknowledge the consequences of his actions.
Nancy's insecurity and ambition: Nancy's bold actions and her determination to secure her future with Jim may stem from underlying insecurities and a desire for social and economic stability, revealing a more complex character than initially apparent.

What are the major emotional turning points?

The Irishman's visit: The Irishman's visit is the primary emotional turning point, shattering Eilis's sense of security and forcing her to confront the possibility of betrayal and the uncertainty of her future.
The conversation in the dark : The whispered conversation between Eilis and Tony in the dark, where he confirms the Irishman's intentions, marks a shift in their relationship, as Eilis begins to question Tony's honesty and their shared future.
The plate of stew : Eilis's act of spilling the stew is a powerful emotional outburst, revealing her suppressed anger and frustration and signaling a breakdown in their carefully constructed facade of normalcy.

How do relationship dynamics evolve?

Eilis and Tony's growing distance: The revelation of Tony's infidelity creates a growing distance between Eilis and Tony, as they struggle to communicate and rebuild trust.
Eilis and Francesca's strained alliance: Eilis and Francesca's relationship becomes more strained as they navigate the complexities of the situation, with Francesca's traditional views and desire for control clashing with Eilis's growing sense of independence.
Eilis and Jim's rekindled connection: Eilis and Jim's unexpected reunion sparks a rekindled connection, as they grapple with their shared past and the possibility of a future together.

Interpretation & Debate

Which parts of the story remain ambiguous or open-ended?

Eilis's ultimate decision: The novel's ending leaves Eilis's ultimate decision about her future ambiguous, leaving the reader to speculate on whether she will stay with Tony, pursue a relationship with Jim, or forge a new path on her own.
The baby's fate : The fate of Tony's illegitimate child and the long-term consequences for the Fiorello family remain open-ended, leaving the reader to consider the complexities of family dynamics and the enduring impact of infidelity.
Jim and Nancy's future: The long-term prospects of Jim and Nancy's relationship are uncertain, as the novel ends before their marriage takes place, leaving the reader to wonder whether they will find happiness together or whether their relationship is ultimately doomed.

What are some debatable, controversial scenes or moments in Long Island?

Eilis's initial reaction: Eilis's initial reaction to the news of Tony's infidelity, characterized by a desire to avoid confrontation and a reluctance to take responsibility, may be seen as passive or even unsympathetic by some readers.
Francesca's interference: Francesca's attempts to control the situation and manipulate events behind the scenes may be viewed as well-intentioned but ultimately harmful, raising questions about the role of family in personal decisions.
Jim's pursuit of Eilis: Jim's pursuit of Eilis while engaged to Nancy may be seen as morally questionable, raising ethical dilemmas about love, loyalty, and the pursuit of personal happiness.

Long Island Ending Explained: How It Ends & What It Means

Ambiguous ending : The ending is deliberately ambiguous, focusing on Eilis's internal state rather than providing a definitive resolution to her romantic or marital dilemmas. This reflects the complexities of life and the lack of easy answers to difficult questions.
Focus on Eilis's agency: The ending emphasizes Eilis's agency and her ability to make her own choices, even in the face of uncertainty. She is not defined by her relationships with men but rather by her own desires and aspirations.
Themes of self-discovery: The ending underscores the novel's themes of self-discovery and the search for belonging, suggesting that Eilis's journey is ongoing and that her future will be shaped by her own choices and her ability to embrace her authentic self.