Sally Rooney’s literary journey: A pause from TV adaptations
A break from the screen
Sally Rooney, the acclaimed author behind the novels-turned-series Normal People and Conversations With Friends, has decided to step back from TV adaptations for her latest work. In a recent interview, Rooney revealed that she has chosen not to option the rights for her third book, Beautiful World, Where Are You?, which was released in 2021. When asked about her decision, Rooney explained, “I felt like it was just time to take a break from that and let the book be its own thing for a while.”
The success of ‘Normal People’
Normal People, featuring Paul Mescal and Daisy Edgar-Jones, became a critical and commercial sensation when it premiered on Hulu in April 2020. The series, which captured the intricate dynamics of young love and personal growth, resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike. The adaptation’s success catapulted Mescal and Edgar-Jones into the spotlight, marking a significant milestone in their careers. For those who haven’t yet experienced this poignant series, you can watch the trailer here.
Mixed reviews for ‘Conversations With Friends’
Following the triumph of Normal People, Rooney’s debut novel, Conversations With Friends, was also adapted for the screen by the same creative team. However, the reception was more mixed. Rooney admitted that her involvement in this adaptation was limited due to her focus on writing Beautiful World, Where Are You?. Despite the varied reviews, Rooney expressed no regrets about the process. You can check out the trailer for Conversations With Friends here.
Reflecting on the adaptation experience
Rooney shared her thoughts on the adaptation process, stating, “The experience of working on Normal People had been, in so many ways, amazing — the team of people involved in it. But it did also feel like a really big job.” She further elaborated on the overwhelming media attention and discourse that followed the show’s release, which made her realize that her true passion lies in writing books. “I felt that world was not where I belonged. I felt like, ‘OK, now I know that my books are where I belong, and that’s all that I want to be doing.'”
Introducing ‘Intermezzo’
Rooney’s fourth book, Intermezzo, is set to hit bookshelves soon. This novel delves into the lives of two brothers who are navigating the grief of losing their father while exploring two very different romantic relationships. Writing from a male perspective posed a unique challenge for Rooney, who acknowledged that her work is often perceived as autobiographical. “I’m aware that people think that my work is heavily autobiographical, and in fact, it isn’t. It felt like they were just fictional characters, like all my other fictional characters, and I was intrigued by them. So the question of gender felt very secondary, but there were moments where I thought, ‘Have I got any of this right?'”
A personal reflection on Rooney’s impact
As a fan of both literature and screen adaptations, Rooney’s decision to pause TV adaptations is both understandable and intriguing. Her ability to craft deeply emotional and relatable characters has made her a standout voice in contemporary fiction. The adaptations of her work have brought her stories to a wider audience, but it’s clear that her heart remains with the written word. For those who have followed her journey, Intermezzo promises to be another compelling addition to her body of work.
Final thoughts
Rooney’s choice to focus on her writing rather than pursuing further TV adaptations highlights the importance of staying true to one’s creative roots. Her novels have touched the hearts of many, and her decision to let her latest book stand on its own is a testament to her dedication to her craft. As we eagerly await the release of Intermezzo, it’s worth reflecting on the impact Rooney’s stories have had on both the literary and television worlds. For those interested in exploring her previous works, the trailers for Normal People and Conversations With Friends offer a glimpse into the captivating worlds she has created.