The process of changing residences is well-known for being one of life’s most taxing events, a sentiment renowned author Marian Keyes strongly attests to. Having recently made the choice to relocate to a different area of Dublin, she has found the experience decidedly challenging.
“Every bit of change initiates an onslaught of emotions which I find myself contending with daily. It wouldn’t be far off to assert that the frequency of heated exchanges between my partner and myself has surged over the past few months,” Keyes expresses candidly.
Marian and her spouse, Tony, had been ingrained in their previous dwelling in Dun Laoghaire, Dublin for close to thirty years, putting down roots there right after their return from London during the 90s. The shift, while thrilling, has also been nerve-wracking.
“Transition can be profoundly unsettling for individuals… but ultimately, things regain their equilibrium. I’ve begun the process of finding my footing once again, embedding myself within a distinct community, a fresh section of Dublin,” she asserts.
Though the relocation necessitated some degree of acclimatisation, Keyes is also discovering joy in imparting her own personal touch on her new home. This includes adding splashes of colour and carefully selecting eccentric, decorative pieces.
“I am now the proud owner of an array of charming ceramics of varied shapes and sizes, things with a bit of quirkiness to them. However, I remain unperturbed about public opinion. My home is a reflection of my taste and I am free to fill it with modest, appealing items. The notion of impressing others with the interior design of my house seems trite at this stage in life,” she says. “Embracing your unique style matters more than conforming to the ‘perfect kitchen’ aesthetic championed on social media platforms like Instagram.”
In Keyes’ latest creation, ‘My Favourite Mistake’, central themes are those of change and fresh beginnings. The narrative chronicles Anna Walsh’s journey as she breaks it off with her steady boyfriend, quits her high-ranking PR gig, and relocates from New York to the untamed landscapes of Connemara. Speaking about the inspiration for the novel, Keyes reveals that the initial plan for the book was set aside in favour of penning a romance narrative.
Following the completion of her book ‘Again, Rachel’, author Marian Keyes had intentions of pursuing a vast and ambitious project that partly touched on the theme of malevolence. However, with the political tensions unfolding in Ukraine due to the Russian invasion, Keyes yearned for a serene and captivating mental escape as she embarked on her next literary venture, a process she reveals typically spans over two years.
In her own words, she crafted a book that she would have relished reading herself.
Marian Keyes’ book ‘My Favourite Mistake’ is released by Michael Joseph and she will be gracing the stage at the International Literature Festival in Dublin on May 23rd. Tickets are available at ILFD.com.
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