In Quest of Mystery

John Clark Smith

ISBN:  978-93-90601-87-5

Copyright 2022, Cyberwit

Reviewed by LB Sedlacek

Smith’s book gives a mystical feel as it seems to examine the life (or mystery of life) of Henri, a musician.  Henri is inspired to play Scarlatti.  He begins an introspection of his life after he meets a unusual woman named Dohaz.

The chapters are linked by music.  The book is a blend of historical fiction and literary fiction with a poetical end.

Each person the main character meets seems to have a purpose.  He just has to recognize that and figure out in what direction they’re leading him. 

Smith’s writing offers a specific clear voice.  He puts together meaningful prose which is not only compelling but interesting to read.

The story seems to be a journey.  It is interesting, as a reader, to uncover the layers of storytelling on each page.

From Chapter 9:  The Gardener:

“In the evenings he continued to work on Scarlatti and his meditations,
progressing adequately, as far as he knew. The other residents in the
apartment house soon complained about the music, so he constructed a
soundproof insulation around the piano. Almost every sonata was under
his hands and he could meditate while he played. The object of his
meditations was highly focused: to reach the vision of the Community.
The monkey would bring him to it. He did not strive for anything else
because he did not realize what else there was and was quite happy in
the various pleasures that arose for him in this one vision.”

Drenched in what feels like local wits and wisdom, the characters feel alive.  Smith includes such nuances with each one that they feel very real. 

The writing is intelligent and determined.  Yet, every sentence feels thought out.  This is an absorbing story.  It is original and realistic.  The musical parts of the story gives the book an extra dimension. 

Smith has created a rich and textured world.  It is fresh with surprises.  The characters within the Community are remarkable.  The book has an indomitable spirit.  You can almost hear the music coming out of the pages.

~LB Sedlacek, author of “The Blue Eyed Side” and “The Jackalope Committee and Other Tales.”