51 pages • 1 hour read
James KelmanHow Late It Was, How Late
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1994A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
How Late It Was, How Late by James Kelman follows the life of Sammy, a working-class Glaswegian who loses his sight after an altercation with police following a drinking spree. The novel depicts Sammy's struggle to adapt to his new reality, seek disability benefits, and navigate a hostile environment while facing social and bureaucratic challenges. The narrative employs a distinctive stream-of-consciousness style and Glaswegian dialect. The source material includes depictions of police violence, substance abuse, and ableism against people with sight loss.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
James Kelman's How Late It Was, How Late garners mixed reactions. Praised for its authentic Glaswegian dialect and compelling portrayal of struggle, it immerses readers in the protagonist's psyche. However, its dense vernacular and meandering plot challenge readability. Critics acknowledge its literary merit but caution that its style may not appeal to all.
Who Should Read How Late It Was, How Late?
A reader who enjoys gritty noir, stream-of-consciousness narratives, and emotionally complex characters would appreciate James Kelman’s How Late It Was, How Late. Comparable to Irvine Welsh's Trainspotting and Samuel Beckett’s Molloy, it appeals to those inclined towards raw, authentic depictions of working-class life.
RecommendedReading Age
18+yearsBook Details
Values/Ideas: Literature
Society: Class
Identity: Disability
Mystery / Crime Fiction
British Literature