Essay Questions

How does Amis create suspense and intrigue?

The text opens with the following passage: "This is the story of a murder. It hasn't happened yet. But it will. (It had better.) I know the murderer, I know the murderee. I know the time, I know the place. I know the motive (her motive) and I know the means. I know who will be the foil, the fool, the poor foal, also utterly destroyed. I couldn't stop them, I don't think, even if I wanted to. The girl will die. It's what she always wanted. You can't stop people, once they start. You can't stop people, once they start creating."

This is an intriguing opening, which instantly draws the reader in. As a reader, we are left wondering how this character knows so much about a murder that is yet to happen. There are many unanswered questions, and we are encouraged to continue reading in order to find out the answers.

What is the significance of violence in this novel?

Violence is a key aspect of the novel. London Fields is a murder mystery, and revolves around an act of murder that is yet to happen. Although the novel is largely comical, there are also some dark sections where violence is explored.

This novel also explores domestic abuse through the relationship of Keith and Nicole. Keith regularly abuses Nicole, which is another aspect of violence in this text.