In writing Just Duffy, a novel set amidst the urban decay of Lanarkshire, Robin Jenkins has created a modern-day Confession of a Justified Sinner. Convinced of his own rectitude, appalled at the moral squalor around him, Duffy declares war on society. Ridiculous, yet horrifying at the same time, his campaign builds to a terrifying conclusion. Beset with ambiguity, Duffy is a ferocious indictment of Calvinistic moral certainty, of a struggle for good which results in only evil and destruction. The deeply ironic title bears witness to the mismatch of Duffy's aspiration against his own insignificance.
The themes of this novel are central to all Jenkins' work. In its stark simplicity Just Duffy lays claim to being one of his most significant and powerful novels. Its inexorable drive and power bear witness to a modern Greek tragedy played out on a Scottish stage.
- ISBN10 0862415519
- ISBN13 9780862415518
- Publish Date 1 January 1997 (first published 14 July 1988)
- Publish Status Active
- Out of Print 12 March 2021
- Publish Country GB
- Imprint Canongate Books
- Edition Main
- Format Paperback (B-Format (198x129 mm))
- Pages 256
- Language English