At Swim-Two-Birds

by Flann O’Brien
At Swim-Two-Birds cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Comedy/Humor
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Paperback • £9.99
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  • ID: 10457
  • Added: 2026-01-25
  • Updated: 2026-01-27
  • ISBN: 9780141182681
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 2000-02-22
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 2

At Swim-two-birds follows an unnamed undergraduate living with his uncle in Dublin, who spends his time drinking and crafting bizarre and humorous tales. His stories feature a cast of eccentric characters, including one who invents a method for women to give birth to fully grown adults. The novel's meta-fictional structure and playful narrative style make it a unique and entertaining read. /n/n The book is a prime example of early 20th-century Irish literature, blending humor, satire, and experimental storytelling. It challenges traditional narrative forms and offers a glimpse into the creative mind of its protagonist, who blurs the lines between reality and fiction.

Reviews
The Guardian · 2014-12-08
brilliant 4.00

At Swim-Two-Birds is a labyrinthine and multilayered work that reflects the essence of the Irish novel. It is both a reflection on and an exemplar of Irish literary tradition.

The reviewer highlights the book's complex and multifaceted nature, noting its humorous and reflective qualities. They see it as a significant contribution to Irish literature, showcasing O'Brien's unique style and his ability to weave together various narrative threads. The book's humor and depth make it a standout work, one that captures the essence of Irish storytelling. They appreciate the way it challenges traditional narrative forms and invites readers to explore its rich layers.

Quick quotes

    Labyrinthine and multilayered, Flann O'Brien's humorous debut is both a reflection on, and an exemplar of, the Irish novel.

    It is a significant contribution to Irish literature, showcasing O'Brien's unique style.

    The book's humor and depth make it a standout work, one that captures the essence of Irish storytelling.

Richard Gwyn · Richard Gwyn · 2012-01-14
fantastic 4.50

At Swim-Two-Birds is considered by the reviewer to be O'Brien's best book, surpassing even The Third Policeman. It is a work that combines humor, mythology, and nonsense in a brilliant impressionistic jumble.

Richard Gwyn has always thought highly of At Swim-Two-Birds, considering it O'Brien's best work. They appreciate its blend of humor, mythology, and nonsense, which creates a unique and engaging reading experience. The book's impressionistic style and its ability to weave together different narrative elements make it a standout piece of literature. Gwyn's enthusiasm for the book is evident, and they encourage readers to explore its rich and complex layers. They believe it offers a deeper and more satisfying read than some of O'Brien's other works.

Quick quotes

    I have always thought At Swim-Two-Birds was O'Brien's best book.

    It is a brilliant impressionistic jumble of ideas, mythology and nonsense.

    The book's impressionistic style and its ability to weave together different narrative elements make it a standout piece of literature.

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