The Society of Others by William Nicholson

The Society of Others

William Nicholson

If I tell you that this is a meditation on the existence and nature of God, it might put you off, so I'll deny that right now. Think of Frodo Baggins, without hairy feet, taking on the secret police. Or Sam Spade in partnership with Thomas Aquinas.

Extract
Some time in the middle of the night I have a mystical experience. My eyes open but the candles have gone out and there's no light at all. I don't know where I am, but I don't feel afraid. In fact I feel immense. I feel as if I extend in all directions without limit and contain all things.
Parallels
  • The Castle by Franz Kafka
  • The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett
  • Death is Part of the Process by Hilda Bernstein