Lola Bensky
In 1967, nineteen-year-old Australian rock journalist Lola Bensky is thrust into the vibrant London music scene, interviewing icons like Mick Jagger and Jimi Hendrix. While navigating the glamorous world of rock and roll, Lola grapples with personal insecurities and the unspoken history of her parents' past. Her journey of self-discovery continues through marriage, motherhood, and psychoanalysis, as she seeks to understand what it truly means to be human.
The character of Lola Bensky is inspired by author Lily Brett's own experiences as a young rock journalist in London during the 1960s. While not a direct autobiography, the novel draws heavily on her personal history and observations from that era.
Lola Bensky shares thematic links with Brett's broader body of work, particularly in its exploration of identity, the impact of historical trauma on subsequent generations, and the search for meaning. Readers familiar with her other novels will recognize her distinctive voice and recurring interests.
The narrative of Lola Bensky moves back and forth in time, weaving together Lola's experiences in 1960s London with her later life and reflections. This non-linear approach allows for a deeper exploration of her character development and the lingering effects of her past.