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    Long Island

    by Tóibín, Colm
    Long Island by Colm Tóibín is a sequel to his 2009 novel Brooklyn, continuing the story of Eilis Lacey two decades later. Now settled in Long Island with her husband Tony and their children, Eilis faces personal upheaval when she discovers Tony has fathered a child with another woman. She returns to her hometown in Ireland, confronting past relationships and seeking solace. The novel explores themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of love and family across two countries.
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    Long Island

    Part Six:i

    by Tóibín, Colm

    In this chap­ter from *Part Six:i*, Nan­cy meets with Oliv­er Rossiter, a Wex­ford-based estate agent, to view a poten­tial build­ing site at Lucas Park. Despite the gloomy weath­er dimin­ish­ing the site’s appeal, Oliv­er high­lights its poten­tial, men­tion­ing out­line plan­ning per­mis­sion for a bun­ga­low and sug­gest­ing the involve­ment of a land­scape gar­den­er to improve the property’s prospects. Nan­cy con­tem­plates the site’s prox­im­i­ty to the road and its suit­abil­i­ty for con­struc­tion, weigh­ing her options care­ful­ly to avoid impul­sive deci­sions. The con­ver­sa­tion reveals the chal­lenges of site selec­tion and the del­i­cate bal­ance between loca­tion, price, and per­son­al pref­er­ence.

    Oliv­er then intro­duces Nan­cy to anoth­er prop­er­ty near Bal­ly­hogue, acces­si­ble via a nar­row, over­grown lane by the riv­er. This site, owned by Mags O’Connor, who is now in the Coun­ty Home, car­ries a some­what com­pli­cat­ed his­to­ry includ­ing plan­ning per­mis­sions that were nev­er act­ed upon. Nan­cy recalls her past deliv­er­ies in the area, reflect­ing on the per­son­al con­nec­tions and hard­ships she has expe­ri­enced. The new site offers a broad­er, brighter view despite its slope and access dif­fi­cul­ties, with Oliv­er empha­siz­ing the work need­ed to make it viable for build­ing.

    The nego­ti­a­tion over the price of this sec­ond site reveals ten­sion and nego­ti­a­tion chal­lenges. Mags is ask­ing dou­ble the expect­ed amount, which Oliv­er can­did­ly dis­cuss­es with Nan­cy. They acknowl­edge the site’s draw­backs, includ­ing its expo­sure to harsh winds from the riv­er and its iso­la­tion, but also its unique qual­i­ties. Oliv­er warns Nan­cy about Mags’s per­son­al­i­ty, who enjoys the atten­tion that sell­ing the site brings and may resist a quick sale. Nan­cy decides to reveal her iden­ti­ty to Mags, hop­ing her past good­will might influ­ence the nego­ti­a­tions.

    The chap­ter ends with Oliv­er inform­ing Nan­cy that Mags insists on meet­ing her per­son­al­ly and threat­ens to sell the site to anoth­er buy­er if Nan­cy does not vis­it prompt­ly. This devel­op­ment adds urgency to Nancy’s deci­sion-mak­ing, high­light­ing the com­plex­i­ties of prop­er­ty trans­ac­tions in rur­al areas, where per­son­al rela­tion­ships and tim­ing play cru­cial roles. The chap­ter bal­ances prac­ti­cal real estate con­cerns with the emo­tion­al and social dimen­sions of Nancy’s jour­ney.

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    FAQs

    • 1. How does the chapter portray Nancy’s approach to selecting a site for building a bungalow, and what factors influence her hesitation?

      Answer:
      Nancy’s approach to selecting a site is cautious and contemplative. She initially thought she wanted a site near the road but begins to doubt this after seeing the first field at Lucas Park, which looks unappealing under a grey sky and feels unsuitable for building. Her hesitation is influenced by practical concerns such as the site’s appearance, access, and the potential for dampness on the bungalow. She also considers expert advice, like Oliver’s suggestion to consult a landscape gardener and what Jim might recommend about driveway material. Nancy is mindful not to act impulsively, reflecting her desire to make well-considered decisions, especially given the complexity of her situation.

      2. What role does Oliver Rossiter play in Nancy’s search for a building site, and how does their interaction reveal aspects of Nancy’s character?

      Answer:
      Oliver acts as a knowledgeable and discreet estate agent who helps Nancy explore potential building sites without disclosing her identity. Their interaction reveals Nancy’s uncertainty and vulnerability—she worries about wasting Oliver’s time and is cautious in her decisions. Oliver’s candidness and salesmanship contrast with Nancy’s measured approach; for example, he tries to convince her of the merits of a site despite its drawbacks. Nancy’s reflections on her past deliveries and her sensitivity about Mags O’Connor’s situation further reveal her empathy and connection to the local community, highlighting her thoughtful and grounded nature.

      3. Analyze the significance of the site near Ballyhogue and Nancy’s reaction to it. How does this setting contribute to the themes of the chapter?

      Answer:
      The Ballyhogue site represents both opportunity and challenge. It is described as large and bright with a river view but is accessed via a steep, narrow, and overgrown lane. Nancy’s mixed feelings—appreciation of the openness and concern about the wind and isolation—highlight the tension between idealism and reality in property development. The site’s connection to Mags O’Connor, a complex local figure, adds a layer of social context and history. This setting underscores themes of change, community ties, and the difficulty of finding a ‘perfect’ place, symbolizing Nancy’s broader struggle to rebuild and find stability amid uncertainty.

      4. Considering Nancy’s past and current circumstances, how might the pressures she faces influence her decisions regarding property and planning?

      Answer:
      Nancy’s past—particularly the death of George and the decline of her business—frames her current cautiousness and practical mindset. The financial strain and family tensions she experiences make her wary of impulsive decisions, as seen in her reluctance to commit quickly to a site. Her awareness of needing a well-thought-out plan reflects a desire to avoid further setbacks. These pressures likely compel her to balance emotional desires with economic realities, seek expert advice, and carefully evaluate risks. Her interaction with Oliver and the potential negotiation with Mags also suggest she must navigate social dynamics carefully, influencing how she approaches property acquisition and development.

      5. What does the chapter suggest about the relationship between the physical environment and the emotional or psychological states of the characters, particularly Nancy?

      Answer:
      The chapter closely links the physical environment with Nancy’s internal state. The gloomy, cloudy weather over the first site mirrors her uncertainty and unease. The narrow, rutted lane to Ballyhogue and the solitary river view evoke feelings of isolation and vulnerability, paralleling Nancy’s own life challenges. Conversely, the openness of the field at Ballyhogue offers a glimpse of hope and possibility, though tempered by practical concerns like the harsh winter wind. This interplay suggests that the environment acts as a metaphor for Nancy’s emotional journey—her cautious optimism, her doubts, and her connection to place and community all reflected in the landscapes she encounters.

    Quotes

    • 1. “Sites look better in the sunshine. It’s a pity it’s so cloudy today.”

      This quote captures the theme of perception versus reality, emphasizing how circumstances (like weather) can influence the appeal of a place or opportunity. It sets the tone for Nancy’s ambivalence about the site and foreshadows her cautious approach to decision-making.

      2. “I thought I wanted something near the road, but now I’m not so sure.”

      Here, Nancy reveals a key turning point in her thinking, highlighting the uncertainty and reconsideration involved in her search for the right property. It reflects the broader motif of reassessment and the complexity of choices in the chapter.

      3. “No one likes going up a long lane. I have a site near here that’s been on the market for a while. And that’s up a lane. We’re thinking of handing it back.”

      This statement illustrates the practical challenges and market realities of real estate sales, showing how location and access influence desirability and sales success. It also introduces a contrast to the previously viewed site, deepening the narrative about property selection.

      4. “Having a site for sale keeps her going.”

      This poignant remark about Mags O’Connor reveals the emotional and psychological dimensions behind property sales, suggesting that for some sellers, the process is as much about personal identity and connection as it is about the transaction itself. It adds depth to the chapter’s exploration of human elements in real estate dealings.

      5. “She said tell you to come and see her before the end of today or she will sell it to someone else.”

      This quote underscores urgency and the pressures inherent in decision-making and negotiations, marking a climactic moment in the chapter that propels the narrative forward and heightens tension regarding Nancy’s next steps.

    Quotes

    1. “Sites look better in the sunshine. It’s a pity it’s so cloudy today.”

    This quote captures the theme of perception versus reality, emphasizing how circumstances (like weather) can influence the appeal of a place or opportunity. It sets the tone for Nancy’s ambivalence about the site and foreshadows her cautious approach to decision-making.

    2. “I thought I wanted something near the road, but now I’m not so sure.”

    Here, Nancy reveals a key turning point in her thinking, highlighting the uncertainty and reconsideration involved in her search for the right property. It reflects the broader motif of reassessment and the complexity of choices in the chapter.

    3. “No one likes going up a long lane. I have a site near here that’s been on the market for a while. And that’s up a lane. We’re thinking of handing it back.”

    This statement illustrates the practical challenges and market realities of real estate sales, showing how location and access influence desirability and sales success. It also introduces a contrast to the previously viewed site, deepening the narrative about property selection.

    4. “Having a site for sale keeps her going.”

    This poignant remark about Mags O’Connor reveals the emotional and psychological dimensions behind property sales, suggesting that for some sellers, the process is as much about personal identity and connection as it is about the transaction itself. It adds depth to the chapter’s exploration of human elements in real estate dealings.

    5. “She said tell you to come and see her before the end of today or she will sell it to someone else.”

    This quote underscores urgency and the pressures inherent in decision-making and negotiations, marking a climactic moment in the chapter that propels the narrative forward and heightens tension regarding Nancy’s next steps.

    FAQs

    1. How does the chapter portray Nancy’s approach to selecting a site for building a bungalow, and what factors influence her hesitation?

    Answer:
    Nancy’s approach to selecting a site is cautious and contemplative. She initially thought she wanted a site near the road but begins to doubt this after seeing the first field at Lucas Park, which looks unappealing under a grey sky and feels unsuitable for building. Her hesitation is influenced by practical concerns such as the site’s appearance, access, and the potential for dampness on the bungalow. She also considers expert advice, like Oliver’s suggestion to consult a landscape gardener and what Jim might recommend about driveway material. Nancy is mindful not to act impulsively, reflecting her desire to make well-considered decisions, especially given the complexity of her situation.

    2. What role does Oliver Rossiter play in Nancy’s search for a building site, and how does their interaction reveal aspects of Nancy’s character?

    Answer:
    Oliver acts as a knowledgeable and discreet estate agent who helps Nancy explore potential building sites without disclosing her identity. Their interaction reveals Nancy’s uncertainty and vulnerability—she worries about wasting Oliver’s time and is cautious in her decisions. Oliver’s candidness and salesmanship contrast with Nancy’s measured approach; for example, he tries to convince her of the merits of a site despite its drawbacks. Nancy’s reflections on her past deliveries and her sensitivity about Mags O’Connor’s situation further reveal her empathy and connection to the local community, highlighting her thoughtful and grounded nature.

    3. Analyze the significance of the site near Ballyhogue and Nancy’s reaction to it. How does this setting contribute to the themes of the chapter?

    Answer:
    The Ballyhogue site represents both opportunity and challenge. It is described as large and bright with a river view but is accessed via a steep, narrow, and overgrown lane. Nancy’s mixed feelings—appreciation of the openness and concern about the wind and isolation—highlight the tension between idealism and reality in property development. The site’s connection to Mags O’Connor, a complex local figure, adds a layer of social context and history. This setting underscores themes of change, community ties, and the difficulty of finding a ‘perfect’ place, symbolizing Nancy’s broader struggle to rebuild and find stability amid uncertainty.

    4. Considering Nancy’s past and current circumstances, how might the pressures she faces influence her decisions regarding property and planning?

    Answer:
    Nancy’s past—particularly the death of George and the decline of her business—frames her current cautiousness and practical mindset. The financial strain and family tensions she experiences make her wary of impulsive decisions, as seen in her reluctance to commit quickly to a site. Her awareness of needing a well-thought-out plan reflects a desire to avoid further setbacks. These pressures likely compel her to balance emotional desires with economic realities, seek expert advice, and carefully evaluate risks. Her interaction with Oliver and the potential negotiation with Mags also suggest she must navigate social dynamics carefully, influencing how she approaches property acquisition and development.

    5. What does the chapter suggest about the relationship between the physical environment and the emotional or psychological states of the characters, particularly Nancy?

    Answer:
    The chapter closely links the physical environment with Nancy’s internal state. The gloomy, cloudy weather over the first site mirrors her uncertainty and unease. The narrow, rutted lane to Ballyhogue and the solitary river view evoke feelings of isolation and vulnerability, paralleling Nancy’s own life challenges. Conversely, the openness of the field at Ballyhogue offers a glimpse of hope and possibility, though tempered by practical concerns like the harsh winter wind. This interplay suggests that the environment acts as a metaphor for Nancy’s emotional journey—her cautious optimism, her doubts, and her connection to place and community all reflected in the landscapes she encounters.

    Note