[At Five in the Afternoon 02] • The House of Pure Being

Michael Murphy s second volume of reflections deals with the fact that life goes on and details the progression of those we met in the first book, including himself. His writing is powerful and engaging and takes an unflinching look at difficult subjects, particularly the lingering and distressing physical effects that prostate cancer had on his body, and the confusion of guilt and pain accompanying his decision to place his mother into a nursing home. The book touches on many important people in Murphy s life and compassionately and courageously discusses the passing of his friends, Steve McDonogh (Michael s previous publisher) and Aengus Fanning (former Editor of the "Sunday Independent"). The book finishes strongly with an account of the civil partnership of Terry and Michael. The genuine affection between the couple and their obvious joy on the day of their Civil Partnership ceremony shines through and offers a very personal perspective on the historic changes taking place regarding gay rights in Ireland.