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Sally Rooney's 'Intermezzo' Explores Masculinity and Fragile Relationships

Rooney's latest novel delves into the lives of two brothers navigating love and identity in a complex, modern world.

  • Intermezzo marks Sally Rooney's return with a focus on male protagonists, Peter and Ivan, dealing with the recent death of their father.
  • The novel captures the brothers' struggles with their respective love lives, insecurities, and societal pressures.
  • Rooney's writing style remains clear and emotionally rich, with a shift towards exploring familial and existential themes.
  • Intermezzo juxtaposes the brothers' internal conflicts and relationships, including Ivan's with an older woman and Peter's with a younger student.
  • The book tackles broader questions about masculinity, morality, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world.
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