In his book “Days Without End”, Irish author Sebastian Barry tells the story of an unlikely love between a young Irishman, Thomas McNulty, and an American Indian, John Cole, against the backdrop of the late 19th century. Through this story, Barry paints an intimate picture of a friendship formed in the face of war and death, as the two men travel the United States together.
Set primarily in the mid-1800s, “Days Without End” follows Thomas and John’s adventures around the country, showing the Civil War and its aftermath from the perspective of two unlikely protagonists. The novel begins in 1847 when Thomas emigrates to America in the wake of the Irish Potato Famine. He is alone and destitute, but eventually finds a situation in the US Army. It is here that he meets John, an American Indian. The two soon become very close, spending days in the snow-covered woods of Kansas, training for the US Army.
When the Civil War begins, Thomas and John are sent to a regiment serving in Tennessee, where their friendship is tested by both their enemies and the overwhelming amount of death they must face on the battlefield. In the midst of their trials and tribulations, the two men develop a deep love for each other and put their lives on the line to protect one another. Despite the dangers of war, Thomas and John discover small moments of joy and peace, such as sharing food or even just being present in each other’s company.
As the war continues, Thomas and John come to terms with their relationship, with Thomas deciding to go against societal norms and reveal his relationship with John to his family back in Ireland. While his family is surprisingly supportive, Thomas and John still face discrimination from those around them. As a result, the two men are forced to seek a new life in rural Wisconsin.
Though separated from their war-torn past, the men soon discover that life carries its own challenges, as they must struggle to survive in a new and unfamiliar land. Against all odds, the couple overcomes a series of obstacles, finding a serene and safe home deep in the Midwest.
While “Days Without End” traverses multiple locations and time periods, the story’s core is found in the relationship between Thomas and John. Throughout the novel, readers see two complex characters struggle and triumph, showing the strength of love and loyalty in the face of extreme hardship. The novel is a vivid and emotive tale of a friendship unlike any other, and serves as a powerful and poignant reminder of the power of love and hope which can transcend all boundaries.
