A Journey Through "Kick the Latch" by Kathryn Scanlan
When I first picked up "Kick the Latch" by Kathryn Scanlan, I was lured by the accolades that had begun to accumulate like fallen leaves in autumn—shortlisted for the William Hill Sports Book Award and, most recently, the winner of the Gordon Burn Prize. It promised not just a story set in the world of horse racing but a deep dive into the unique language and life experiences of those who inhabit that realm. But what I found myself holding was a novella that stripped away expectation and laid bare the complexities of existence through a lens I hadn’t anticipated.
Scanlan’s writing exudes a raw authenticity, echoing the very essence of the racetrack environment. There’s an almost tactile sense of urgency in her prose, echoing the sound of hooves against dirt and the anxious energy of horses waiting in the gates. The voice of the protagonist—an unnamed woman drawing from profound experiences in the racing world—draws you in, yet keeps you at a distance, showcasing how complicated relationships can be, both with animals and ourselves.
One of the most thought-provoking elements for me was the novella’s language. Scanlan immerses readers in the jargon-heavy dialogue specific to racing, creating a world that feels simultaneously foreign and familiar. The protagonist’s reflections on trying to explain this unique lexicon to her family evoked a sense of frustration that many of us can relate to—a feeling of being misunderstood and isolated when attempting to communicate aspects of our own lives. It’s a poignant reminder that there are many languages in this world, each tethered to specific experiences, cultures, and passions.
The narrative itself unfolds almost like a series of disjointed snapshots—a form that reflects the chaotic and unpredictable nature of life at the races. Phrases such as "Dark Side had been ruled off for flipping in the gates" and descriptions of the tangible tension surrounding race day reveal that while the horses may be the stars, their human companions face equally formidable challenges. The blend of improvisation, creation, and reality that Scanlan brings forth blurs the boundaries between fiction and nonfiction, inviting readers to ponder the essence of storytelling itself.
While I found the pacing occasionally jarring, the depth of the emotional landscape overwhelmed me with a sense of connection. The understated prose captivates without conjecture, urging readers to assimilate the unvarnished truths lurking beneath the surface. I was particularly struck by the judges’ comment from the Gordon Burn Prize, praising Scanlan’s ability to innovate and challenge traditional forms, which reflects my own journey with the book.
Though my expectations were perhaps misaligned with the novella’s intent, there’s something beautifully honest and profound about "Kick the Latch." It’s a work that requires patience and engagement, rewarding those who dig deep with genuine insight into the tumultuous world of horse racing and the human condition.
I’d recommend "Kick the Latch" to readers who are fond of experimental narrative forms or who enjoy delving into characters’ inner lives through unique, subtly atmospheric settings. It challenges conventional storytelling while inviting us to revel in the messy, beautiful chaos of existence. For me, it’s a reminder of the extraordinary lives lived in the most ordinary of settings—a story that lingers well beyond the final page.