The Electric Michelangelo

In The Electric Michelangelo, Cy Parks navigates a life filled with art, love, and adventure, from Morecambe Bay to the vibrant chaos of Coney Island.

Set against the backdrop of Morecambe Bay, The Electric Michelangelo tells the story of Cy Parks, who grows up in a guest house for consumptives run by his mother. His early years are not typical; instead, they are marked by the influence of Eliot Riley, an alcoholic tattoo artist who becomes his mentor. This unconventional upbringing shapes Cy's identity and ignites his thirst for adventure and artistic expression.

As Cy matures, he makes the bold decision to leave England for America, where he immerses himself in the vibrant and chaotic atmosphere of Coney Island. Here, he establishes himself as 'The Electric Michelangelo', a name that hints at his unique talent for tattoo artistry. Amidst the thrill of carnival rides and the allure of freak shows, Cy encounters Grace, a captivating immigrant and circus performer. Their relationship takes a turn when she commissions him to tattoo her body with intricate designs of eyes, symbolizing both beauty and the gaze of the world.

Hailed as a love story and a richly detailed exploration of seaside life, The Electric Michelangelo paints a vivid picture of two cultures separated by the Atlantic. With its lush prose and evocative imagery, the novel captures the essence of longing, artistry, and the complexities of human connection, earning its place among the most celebrated works of contemporary literature.