Disgrace is nothing if not a masterpiece. I wouldn't dream of contradicting both the Nobel prize committee or the Booker prize. It is one of those novels that is not overly complicated, doesn't demand arcane knowledge of the general arts from the reader but is still subtle and beautiful in unpredictable ways. Coetzee's ability to put in only what is necessary shines here brighter than ever. His themes explore apartheid and race in South Africa, but not in a judgmental or awkward way. His words excite experienced readers but lend themselves well to novices.s
The story revolves around David Lurie, a professor of languages in Cape Town. He goes through an ill-advised affair with one of his students and is expelled. He takes up semi-permanent residence with his sister on a farm. I won't discuss the plot more than that (I guess I rarely do) to save the surprises and shocks for future readers. The plot is heavy, without being heavy-handed. The writing, while impeccable, can make you think at times that writing is simply the act of putting words one after the other. Coetzee makes it seem so easy.
At this point in my reviews, I often roll out a few gripes I had with whatever novel I happened to read. Not so today. Coetzee does not give room for gripes. While some may dislike the discussion of racial tensions, none should deny the writer his voice. The characters are not saints, but they are neither completely sinners. None of it is black and white and Coetzee, more than anyone else, is able to describe that world in precious detail.