"A Brief History of Seven Killings" Summary
By Marlon James
fiction | 704 pages | Published in 2014
Winner of the 2015 Man Booker Prize One of Entertainment Weekly's Top 10 Books of the Decade One of the Top 10 Books of 2014 – Michiko Kakutani, The New York Times A “thrilling, ambitious . . . intense” (Los Angeles Times) novel that explores the attempted assassination of Bob Marley in the late 1970s, from the author of Black Leopard, Red Wolf In A Brief History of Seven Killings, Marlon James combines brilliant storytelling with his unrivaled skills of characterization and meticulous eye for detail to forge an enthralling novel of dazzling ambition and scope. On December 3, 1976, just before the Jamaican general election and two days before Bob Marley was to play the Smile Jamaica Concert to ease political tensions in Kingston, seven gunmen stormed the singer’s house, machine guns blazing. The attack wounded Marley, his wife, and his manager, and injured several others. Little was officially released about the gunmen, but much has been whispered, gossiped and sung about in the streets of West Kingston. Rumors abound regarding the assassins’ fates, and there are suspicions that the attack was politically motivated. A Brief History of Seven Killings delves deep into that dangerous and unstable time in Jamaica’s history and beyond. James deftly chronicles the lives of a host of unforgettable characters – gunmen, drug dealers, one-night stands, CIA agents, even ghosts – over the course of thirty years as they roam the streets of 1970s Kingston, dominate the crack houses of 1980s New York, and ultimately reemerge into the radically altered Jamaica of the 1990s. Along the way, they learn that evil does indeed cast long shadows, that justice and retribution are inextricably linked, and that no one can truly escape his fate. Gripping and inventive, shocking and irresistible, A Brief History of Seven Killings is a mesmerizing modern classic of power, mystery, and insight.
| ISBN_13: | 9780698170506 |
| ISBN_10: | 0698170504 |
Estimated read time: 7 min read
One Sentence Summary
A sweeping, multifaceted tale that delves into the violent repercussions and complex connections resulting from an assassination attempt on Bob Marley.
Table of Contents
Introduction
"A Brief History of Seven Killings" by Marlon James is a powerful and ambitious novel that explores the complex political landscape of Jamaica in the 1970s and its impact on individuals caught in the midst of violence, power struggles, and betrayal. Through multiple perspectives and a non-linear narrative, James weaves a compelling story that delves into the dark underbelly of Jamaican history and its lasting effects on society.
Brief Synopsis
The story takes place in the late 1970s and stretches into the 1990s, spanning various locations such as Kingston, Jamaica, and New York City. The central event of the novel is the attempted assassination of Bob Marley, the iconic reggae musician, in December 1976, just two days before a highly anticipated concert. However, the story is not solely focused on this event but uses it as a catalyst to explore the intricate web of characters and their interconnected lives.
Main Events
The events in the novel are presented from the perspective of multiple characters, each offering their own narrative thread and unique insights. While it is impossible to cover every storyline in detail, highlighted here are some of the key events and characters that shape the narrative:
| Main Events | Characters Involved |
|---|---|
| Attempted assassination of Bob Marley | Josey Wales, leader of the Storm Posse, sets his sights on assassinating Bob Marley but fails. This sets off a chain of events that ripples through the lives of many characters, including Papa-Lo, Weeper, Bam-Bam, Shotta Sherrif, and more. |
| The rise and fall of political power | The novel explores the rise and fall of various political figures in Jamaica, such as Sir Arthur George Jennings and Michael Manley. Their struggles for power and influence have far-reaching consequences and impact the lives of both the ruling class and the poor. |
| Gang warfare and violence | The story delves into the violent world of Jamaican gangs and their internal power struggles. Characters like Papa-Lo, Weeper, and Shotta Sherrif navigate the treacherous landscape of gang warfare, highlighting the brutal realities faced by those involved in organized crime. |
| Migration to New York City | The migration of Jamaicans to New York City opens up a new setting for the story. Characters like Bam-Bam and Cynthia find themselves caught between two worlds, trying to establish their identities while also grappling with the traumas of their past in Jamaica. |
| Legacy of violence and trauma | Throughout the novel, the legacy of violence and trauma is explored, transcending generations. The cycle of violence perpetuates itself, impacting not only the characters directly involved but also their children, creating a complex web of intergenerational consequences. |
Main Characters
The novel boasts a vast and diverse cast of characters. Here are a few key players that shape the narrative:
| Character | Description |
|---|---|
| Josey Wales | A central figure in the story, Josey Wales is a ruthless gang leader known as the "Storm Posse." He becomes embroiled in the attempt to assassinate Bob Marley, setting in motion a series of events that reverberate throughout the novel. Josey is determined, violent, and haunted by the ghosts of his past. |
| Papa-Lo | Papa-Lo is the charismatic leader of a rival gang opposed to Josey Wales. He is characterized by his loyalty, compassion, and a desire for peace. His interactions with other characters, such as his protégé Weeper, provide insight into the complexities of power dynamics within the world of Jamaican gangs. |
| Nina Burgess | Nina is a strong-willed and determined journalist who becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind the attempted assassination of Bob Marley. Through her investigation, she navigates the dangerous political landscape and the underbelly of Kingston's criminal underworld. Nina's brave pursuit of the truth forms a compelling thread throughout the novel. |
| Bam-Bam | Bam-Bam is one of the many characters who migrates from Jamaica to New York City. He struggles to establish himself in this new environment while grappling with the traumas of his past. Bam-Bam's journey showcases the challenges faced by immigrants and explores themes of identity, longing, and the search for belonging. |
Themes and Insights
"A Brief History of Seven Killings" raises numerous themes and offers insightful commentary on various aspects of society. Some of the key themes include:
Power and Betrayal
At the heart of the novel lies the struggle for power and the constant betrayal among characters seeking to gain or maintain control. James explores the corrupting influence of power and how it molds individuals and societies. The treachery and manipulation that take place serve as a mirror to the wider political landscape of Jamaica.
Identity and Belonging
The characters in the novel grapple with their identities and search for a sense of belonging. Whether it is individuals caught between cultures or migrating to new countries, the novel portrays the challenges faced by those whose identities are in flux. The exploration of these themes sheds light on the complexities of migration, race, and nationality.
Violence and Trauma
Violence and trauma are ever-present in the lives of the characters. James does not shy away from portraying the brutal realities of gang warfare and the lasting psychological impact it leaves on individuals. Through the interweaving narratives, he highlights the cyclical nature of violence and the ripple effects it has on future generations.
History and Memory
The novel is rooted in Jamaican history and explores the importance of remembering and reconciling with the past. James skillfully captures the political climate of the 1970s, shedding light on events and figures often overlooked or forgotten. The novel acts as a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of recognizing and preserving collective memory.
Reader's Takeaway
"A Brief History of Seven Killings" is a dense and challenging read that captivates with its intricate web of narratives and vivid storytelling. Through its exploration of power, betrayal, identity, violence, and history, the novel forces readers to confront the complexities of society and human nature. It is not a book for the faint of heart, but those willing to delve into its pages will be rewarded with a profound and unforgettable reading experience.
Conclusion
Marlon James' "A Brief History of Seven Killings" is a tour de force that tackles the complex history of Jamaica and its legacy of violence and power struggles. With its sprawling cast of characters, multiple perspectives, and unflinching portrayal of the dark underbelly of society, the novel offers a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of power, identity, and the impact of history on individuals and communities. It is a testament to James' skill as a writer and his ability to navigate difficult subjects with grace and nuance. "A Brief History of Seven Killings" is an essential read for anyone seeking a challenging and immersive literary experience.
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