Review: Last Night At The Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo
In her latest novel, Last Night At The Telegraph Club, acclaimed author Malinda Lo takes readers on an immersive journey through 1950s San Francisco, offering a poignant exploration of identity, love, and the struggle for acceptance. Seamlessly blending historical fiction with LGBTQ+ themes and history, Lo crafts a compelling narrative that captivates from the first page to the last.
Set against the backdrop of the Lavender Scare and the Red Scare, the story follows the life of Lily Hu, a Chinese-American teenager grappling with her budding lesbian identity in an era of intense social and political conservatism. As she discovers the vibrant underground lesbian community at the Telegraph Club, her world expands, both in terms of self-discovery and understanding the larger struggles faced by marginalized individuals during that time.
One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in its richly developed characters. Lily Hu is a relatable and courageous protagonist, determined to find her place in a world that rejects her. Her journey is layered with complexity, as she navigates not only her burgeoning desires but also her cultural heritage, family expectations, and the constant fear of discovery.
The secondary characters are equally compelling, each with their own unique stories and experiences. Lo excels in portraying the diversity within the LGBTQ+ community, offering a nuanced representation of different racial and ethnic backgrounds. The relationships that form within the Telegraph Club are tenderly portrayed, showcasing the power of friendship and love amidst adversity.
One thing though…pacing. As with The Invisible Life Of Addie La Rue and The Song Of Achilles, this story takes its time to unfold, allowing for a thorough exploration of the characters and their emotions. While this meticulous approach adds depth to the narrative, it may not be everyone’s cup of tea. Personally, I feel it's worth it! I would recommend Last Night at The Telegraph Club to anyone who enjoys good writing, character depth, and reflective storytelling.
It is a story that inspires and educates, shedding light on an often overlooked chapter in history while resonating with contemporary audiences. It is a beautifully written and nuanced novel that explores the complexities of identity, friendship and love in a period of history that is often forgotten.
Perhaps the most significant aspect of the story is the fact that it has many layers to it, and that's what makes it stand out. First off, it quietly touches on queer history, shedding light on the struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community. And then there's this beautiful inter-racial romance that blooms amidst all the chaos, showing us that love knows no boundaries. But what really gets me is how deeply human these characters are. They go through some tough stuff, and it's impossible not to feel for them. It's a story that speaks volumes without shouting, and that's what makes it truly remarkable.
Overall, one can argue that Last Night at The Telegraph Club is an important cultural artefact that bridges both LGBTQ and Chinese-American culture. Lo does an admirable job of respecting the privacy of her characters and ensuring that they are portrayed accurately with as much empathy and delicacy as possible.
It is a great achievement to take the reader on an emotional journey while also making them culturally aware. Whether you're a fan of historical fiction, LGBTQ+ literature, or simply appreciate a well-crafted coming-of-age tale, this book is a masterful work that will appeal to a wide range of readers. I strongly recommend that everyone read it at least once. I would rate it 7.5/10.
