Sally Rooney's 'Intermezzo' Explores Grief, Neurodivergence, and Unconventional Love
Sally Rooney's new novel 'Intermezzo' (published in Italy by Einaudi) follows brothers Peter, 30, and Ivan Koubek, 20, after their father's death from cancer. Set over several months in late 2022, the story shifts perspectives among the brothers and three women: Sylvia, Peter's intellectual great love; Naomi, a young provocateur; and Margaret, a married provincial woman who finds new life with Ivan. The title references a chess term reflecting Ivan's former obsession. Rooney delves into neurodivergence—autism, ADHD, dyslexia—as a lens for both brothers' worldviews, mirrored in narrative style (Peter's sections echo Joyce's 'Ulysses'). Themes of power, control, and diverse forms of love recur, culminating in a tender finale where a fractured family rebuilds through atypical bonds. The novel marks Rooney's first non-biographical work.
Key facts
- Sally Rooney's novel 'Intermezzo' is published in Italy by Einaudi.
- The story follows brothers Peter (30) and Ivan (20) Koubek after their father's death.
- The title 'Intermezzo' is a chess term, reflecting Ivan's past obsession.
- The narrative spans several months in late 2022.
- Key characters include Sylvia, Naomi, and Margaret.
- Neurodivergence (autism, ADHD, dyslexia) is a central theme.
- Peter's sections use a stream-of-consciousness style reminiscent of James Joyce's 'Ulysses'.
- The novel explores power dynamics, control, and unconventional love.
- This is Rooney's first non-autobiographical work.
- The ending is described as tender, showing the family's rebirth.
Entities
Artists
- Sally Rooney
- James Joyce
Institutions
- Einaudi
Locations
- Ireland
- Italy