Reasons To Read The Last Caddy And Its Modern Day Relevance

By Walter Sanders


Sports have many mechanics that make them interesting. With golf, what makes it very interesting are the people who play it. Technicalities aside, the game is commonly played by rich men and sometimes women. A perspective that does not get often examined is in from the caddy.

The closest you have probably gone with golf is in a miniature course. Playing it professionally is quite interesting, and not only in the more technical aspects but with the players that participate. The Last Caddy, a novel by David Irwin, tells the story of Frank Carter and his experience in being the sidekick of many golfers.

This game has always been known for its elitist roots, basically originating from the Scotland monarchy. Frank is said to have known many of the players that goes to where he caddies. These are probably in country clubs full of wealthy people who enjoy the sport, regardless of how frustrating it is. Considering that they come from such a stature, they all must be quite the character.

Seeing and knowing people in the perspective of the protagonist is a very interesting take on both the sport and examining human nature. The different types of men and women he must have met while doing his job vary in so many significant ways. Rich people are just as complex and troubled as those who seem to be down financially, which always makes them an interesting subject.

Imagine caddying for rich men. These are people who are most likely to come from wealth, born with a silver spoon in their mouth. In other cases, men who rise into power. This is not to imply that these are rotten citizens with little regard for people who help them, but surely there have been scenarios that involve the obnoxious types.

The sport is now losing more players than ever for many reasons. One, the money involved in a country club membership is just not at all reasonable. The working class and the age bracket that used to earn a lot, enough to allot both time and money to play golf two decades ago, is not able to do so now. A young person who plays this sport, at this age, also probably has a trust fund.

The fact that the protagonists recalls his past experiences bring a very nostalgic tinge to the story, which can be quite addicting. There is still beauty in the eventual death of golf, and for frank, his caddying career. Fond memories were recalled with both heart and humor, making the novel a great read even for those who know nothing about the game.

This piece of literature can be a peek at what it is like to be an observer in an environment that can entertain personalities ranging from totally dull to explosive. If you are an enthusiast, all the better since there would be references you already know about. This may even get you to pick up your clubs and try out your swing again.

If you can relate to the previous statement, you are probably not going out to the club and playing because you are tired. This piece of literature from David Irwin has the potential to be one of those iconic stories that revolve around passe cultural practices that still contain eternal truths regarding human nature. You can be assured of a great read.




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