The Steep Approach to Garbadale
| Industry | Computer games |
|---|---|
Area served | International (including California, Singapore, Hong Kong) |
The Steep Approach to Garbadale is a novel published in 2007 by Scottish writer Iain Banks. During its development, the book was known under at least two provisional titles: Matter and Empire!.
Plot introduction
The narrative revolves around the Wopuld family, whose wealth originated from a board game named Empire!, now successfully adapted into a computer game. The Spraint Corporation, an American enterprise, is intent on purchasing their business.
Plot summary
Alban McGill, a member of the Wopuld clan, has divested most of his shares and left the family enterprise to pursue forestry before retiring due to white finger syndrome. His connections with relatives and his adolescent cousin Sophie draw him back into the family’s corporate affairs.
Another cousin, Fielding, enlists Alban’s assistance to prevent the takeover by Spraint. Alban also seeks to uncover truths about his lineage and achieve emotional resolution regarding Sophie. Much of the plot builds toward an Extraordinary General Meeting held at the family estate in Garbadale, Sutherland, where the decision on the sale will be made. Alban’s current partner, Verushka Graef—a mathematician who shares his passion for hillwalking—accompanies him; near the conclusion, Alban reflects during a hike before returning by way of the steep approach to Garbadale.
Important events take place in locations such as California, Singapore, and Hong Kong, as Alban reminisces about his gap year travels. The novel delves into personal grief, including his mother’s suicide and his relationship with Grandma Win, the family matriarch.
Banks uses this story as a vehicle to critique elements of the War on Terrorism, particularly through Alban’s dealings with American investors attempting to acquire a game symbolizing the British Empire.
Interspersed throughout are contributions from Tango, Alban’s friend and former coworker residing in a Perth council estate.
Literary significance and criticism
This work has been likened to The Crow Road, sharing motifs of Scottish family gatherings and concealed dark family histories.