★ ★ ★ ★
Having already seen Larry’s exhibition, I had some foreknowledge of his memoir. His work being autobiographical. What is refreshing in MacAree’s life story, is that his focus is on the other, of events and of family and friends. The design of the book is reminiscent of David Sedaris; the many hi-res scans of photo albums and artworks. Larry’s writing style is to the point, laid out in stanzas. We take in picnics and Klingons, Dolly Parton to shootings. On the surface Larry can seem all too jovial, but underneath there is a real depth to the subjects he covers.
Of course there are villains of the piece, namely Margaret Thatcher, which is no surprise. There is also sadness as he marks the passing years, his mother growing old and becoming unwell. He also remarks upon his own health and the circumstances of his birth. Always in the starkest of prose. His interest in dolls reminded me of American artist Mark Hogancamp. The man who made a miniature town filled with dolls called Marwencol. There is no ego behind Larry’s memoir. Which is something of a first, most life stories embellish to the point of incredulity. We often rearrange our stories so they make a pleasing shape. It’s what often makes autobiography a lacking art-form. Larry’s memoir actually elevates the genre into something far more satisfying.
My Life With Them by Larry MacAree is available from The University of Atypical.
