Simon the Jester

Simon de Gex seeks out a dismal seaside village after doctors tell him he may have only six months left to live. In rented rooms at Murglebed-on-Sea, the member of Parliament turns November mud, suspicious neighbours and his servant Rogers's alarm into material for jokes. Beneath the comic observations, he considers what would make his remaining life worthwhile.

William John Locke's novel follows these questions through a narrator who mixes self-examination with teasing remarks about the people around him. Simon's secretary, Dale Kynnersley, handles inquiries from constituents and family. A later conversation with Lola shows another difficulty: she intends to meet her husband and judge him for herself, while Simon tries to forbid the meeting. His wish to advise others encounters feelings and decisions he struggles to understand. Readers can find both social comedy and a close look at the uncertainty behind confident good intentions.