Giving up the Ghost

This memoir by Hilary Mantel explores her childhood and the impact of family secrets, loss, and medical neglect, ultimately reflecting on how these experiences shaped her life as a writer.

Giving Up the Ghost is an intriguing five-part autobiography by award-winning novelist Hilary Mantel. The narrative begins in 1995 with the chapter A Second Home, where Mantel reflects on the death of her stepfather. This event triggers a deep exploration of her childhood, marked by unresolved feelings and significant memories.

In the second section, Now Geoffrey Don't Torment Her, Mantel delves into her early years, providing insight into her childhood consciousness. This part of the memoir culminates in the birth of her younger brother and a peculiar candlelight ceremony known as her mother's churching. Through these experiences, Mantel captures the complexities of growing up and the impact of familial relationships on her development.

The memoir continues with Smile, where Mantel shares her teenage struggles and the atmosphere of secrecy within her household. As the narrative unfolds, she reveals how a series of medical misunderstandings led to her being childless. The concluding reflections highlight the haunting presence of the unborn—symbolizing missed opportunities and unfulfilled potential—that linger in her life as a writer. Giving Up the Ghost is a poignant and beautifully crafted memoir, offering readers a glimpse into the life of the celebrated author behind the acclaimed Wolf Hall trilogy.