Brighton Rock – Graham Greene

Written by Graham Greene in 1938, the group discussed whether this was a crime novel or a a moral exploration. Set against the backdrop of the seaside town, the novel delves deep into the dark underbelly of Brighton, presenting a stark contrast to its sunny exterior.

The story revolves around Pinkie Brown, a 17-year-old gang leader with a chillingly cold heart. Pinkie’s ruthless ambition and violent tendencies drive the narrative forward as he seeks power and eliminates those who threaten his position. The novel opens with the murder of Fred Hale, a small-time journalist, setting off a chain of events that pull various characters into Pinkie’s orbit.

Pinkie is a complex character, not likeable yet in some ways pitiable. Despite his youth, Pinkie is marked by a profound sense of doom and a skewed moral compass, rooted in his Catholic upbringing. His interactions with Rose, a naïve and deeply religious young woman, he marries to prevent her from testifying against him, add layers to his character, highlighting his vulnerability and the darkness that engulfs him.

The relationship between Pinkie and Rose is unsettling and tragic. The other main female character is Ida Arnold, who brings a different energy to the story. Driven by a sense of justice and pursuit of truth, Ida is determined to uncover the truth behind Hale’s murder. Ida’s character is vibrant and full of life, embodying a secular sense of morality that stands in stark contrast to Pinkie’s distorted Catholicism.

The town itself becomes a character, with its pier, racecourse, and dingy alleys providing a fitting backdrop for the story’s dark themes. Greene’s ability to create a sense of place enhances the novel’s mood, making the reader feel the oppressive atmosphere that envelops Pinkie and his world.

Thematically, “Brighton Rock” explores the nature of evil, the possibility of redemption, and the complexities of human morality permeated by Greene’s Catholic faith.

“Brighton Rock” is a good read which most of the group found engaging.

It scored 7.5