? UNDER THE LAMPLIGHT-

Panenka by Ronan Hession is a touching and introspective novel that explores the power of human connection and the pursuit of meaning and belonging in life. The titular character is a middle-aged man who lives a quiet and unassuming life in Dublin. Having faced personal tragedy and loss, Panenka finds solace in the routines of his day-to-day existence, taking comfort in his love for football and his role as a caretaker. However, Panenka’s perspective begins to shift when he discovers that the crippling headaches he suffers from — which he calls the Iron Mask — are a permanent ailment, which pushes him to embark on a journey of self-discovery. Through a series of encounters with other characters, he learns about the power of forgiveness, the importance of embracing vulnerability, and the beauty of shared experiences. The moving story is told through Hession’s poignant and lyrical prose, which makes for an engaging exploration of themes of identity, regret, and the search for purpose in life.

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