Triomf
Triomf by Marlene Van Niekerk, published by Little, Brown in 1999, is a novel that explores the lives of four residents at 127 Martha Street in a poor white suburb of Triomf, South Africa. Set against the backdrop of the country’s first democratic elections, the story delves into the complexities of their existence as they navigate personal and societal challenges. The narrative unfolds in English over 528 pages, offering a vivid portrayal of the characters’ interactions and the socio-political landscape of the time.
Readers will find a rich exploration of themes related to poverty, Afrikaner social life, and the political climate of 20th-century South Africa. The inhabitants, including Lambert, Treppie, Pop, and Mol, confront their realities while grappling with the remnants of apartheid and their place within it. The book presents a blend of humor and tragedy, reflecting on the human condition and the bonds that persist even in dire circumstances. Through its detailed character studies and social commentary, Triomf invites readers to reflect on the complexities of identity and community in a changing world.
Official synopsis Publisher
This is the story of the four inhabitants of 127 Martha Street in the poor white suburb of Triomf. Living on the ruins of old Sophiatown, the freehold township razed to the ground as a so-called ‘black spot’, they await with trepidation their country’s first democratic elections. It is a date that coincides fatefully with the fortieth birthday of Lambert, the oversexed misfit son of the house. There is also Treppie, master of misrule and family metaphysician; Pop, the angel of peace teetering on the brink of the grave; and Mol, the materfamilias in her eternal housecoat. Pestered on a daily basis by nosy neighbours, National Party canvassers and Jehova’s Witnesses, defenceless against the big city towering over them like a vengeful dinosaur, they often resort to quoting to each other the only consolation that they know; we still have each other and a roof over our heads.
TRIOMF relentlessly probes Afrikaner history and politics, revealing the bizarre and tragic effect that apartheid had on exactly the white underclass who were most supposed to benefit. It is also a seriously funny investigation of the human endeavour to make sense of life even under the most abject of circumstances.
FAQ
What is “Triomf” about?
Who is the author of “Triomf”?
When was “Triomf” published?
What is the ISBN for “Triomf”?
What are the book details (language, pages, edition)?
