Hotel World by Ali Smith

"Hotel World" is a novel by Ali Smith, first published in 2001. The book tells the story of five women who are all connected to a luxury hotel in Edinburgh, Scotland. Each of the women has their own unique perspective and backstory, and their stories intertwine and intersect in unexpected ways.

The first woman is Sarah, a maid who works at the hotel. Sarah is a young woman who is struggling to make ends meet and support her family. She is also dealing with the recent death of her mother, which has left her feeling lost and alone. Despite these challenges, Sarah is a hardworking and dedicated employee, and she takes pride in her work at the hotel.

The second woman is Lise, a receptionist at the hotel. Lise is a Frenchwoman who has recently moved to Edinburgh with her husband, a successful businessman. Lise is struggling to adapt to her new life in a foreign country, and she often feels isolated and disconnected from the people around her.

The third woman is Pam, a guest at the hotel. Pam is an elderly woman who is traveling to Edinburgh for a funeral. She is dealing with the grief of losing her husband and the guilt of not being able to attend his funeral. Pam is also struggling with the realization that she is now alone and must navigate the rest of her life without her spouse.

The fourth woman is Ann-Marie, a housekeeper at the hotel. Ann-Marie is a young woman who is pregnant and dealing with the complications of an unexpected pregnancy. She is also struggling with her feelings for the father of her child, who is married and unwilling to leave his wife.

The fifth woman is Elsie, a ghost who haunts the hotel. Elsie is a mysterious and enigmatic figure who appears and disappears at will, leaving a trail of clues and riddles in her wake. As the women's stories unfold, they begin to uncover the secrets of Elsie's past and the role that the hotel played in her life.

Throughout the novel, Smith explores themes of loss, grief, and the search for connection and meaning in a world that can often feel cold and impersonal. She also delves into the theme of the power of memory and the ways in which it shapes and defines our identities.

One of the most striking aspects of "Hotel World" is the way that Smith uses the setting of the hotel to create a sense of isolation and detachment. The hotel is a place where people come and go, passing through without leaving a lasting impression on one another. It is a place of transient encounters and fleeting connections, where people are always moving on to the next destination.

This sense of isolation and disconnection is mirrored in the lives of the women who inhabit the hotel. Each of them is struggling with their own sense of loss and loneliness, and they are all searching for a way to connect with others and find a sense of belonging.

As the novel progresses, the women's stories begin to intersect and overlap, and they begin to form a sense of connection with one another. Through their interactions and shared experiences, they are able to find solace and support in each other's company.

In the end, "Hotel World" is a poignant and moving meditation on the human condition and the ways in which we navigate the complexities of life and loss. It is a beautifully written and deeply insightful novel that will stay with readers long after they have finished the last page.