The Man in My Basement-Book Review

“The Man in My Basement” by Walter Mosley

“The Man in My Basement” is almost a writer’s version of a symphony. His theme is calm and subtly played, but he draws you into his music by changing the rhythms to make a man’s most mundane existence extraordinary.

The two main characters couldn’t be more diverse. Charles Blakey lives in the house and property that his family has owned for generations. You recently lost your job and are behind on your mortgage payments. The other man, Anniston Bennet, appears to be a resourceful man who wants to rent Blakey’s basement for the summer at a rate “that would make it worth it.” Money would be more than welcome, but as with any offer that comes out of nowhere, there are strange provisions that go along with it. At first, the offer is rejected, but is later revisited for financial reasons and the rescue of a man.

As the story opens up more, the plot thickens by allowing the reader to discover strange quirks in the personalities of both men. One reveals that he is a closet robber and possibly drunk without much in the way of taking care of himself or the people in his life. The other turns out to be a complete sham, hiding his cultural background and the fact that he is in fact a ruthless killer, now beginning to regret his life.

Like a good symphony, you know this fairly simple story must end. Due to the events taking place, you also know that its completion will be something of a funeral, but keep reading. The ending, like a melody, is not a surprise, but it was an interesting piece of orchestration.

Carine is a journalist and writing coach with different areas of newsworthiness. He has published articles in major magazines, websites, and newspapers. To read more of Carine’s work, log in to: http://www.Carine-whatscooking.blogspot.com