hubert hellerFrom the time of Napoleon to the near future
The creator of Jakub Wędrowycz chose an unusual idea, namely the entire plot of The Phantom of the Shack is based on a few time leaps. The place of action is Liszków, and most of all the palace. And on the example of this region, we can observe the German occupation and then the invasion of the Red Army. In addition, we are witnessing the birth of the state-owned farm, as well as events that occur after the political transformation. What’s most interesting, however, the author looks into the near future and serves a crazy variation on the theme of 2047.
Three phantoms
In theory, the protagonists are the noblewomen Lucrezia, Cornelia and their maid Marcellina. Nevertheless, it soon turns out that in virtually every chapter a new character comes to Liszków and we will be looking at the events from her perspective. And so, in the pages of the novel, there will be such heroes as: AKowiec Count Paweł Liszkowski, Major Kabanow, founder of the state-owned farm Józef Kociub, master of history Włodzimierz Rosół, an artist or the commune administrator. Each character is interesting in its own way and perfectly reflects the uniqueness of the chosen era. Kociuba is obviously an idealist, Major Kabanow is a bastard, and Paweł Liszkowski will try at all costs to survive in these difficult times. The ghosts that appear in almost all chapters appear in the prologue as annoying noblewomen. In the following chapters you can see that they are extremely ingenious. I must admit that I really enjoyed watching the actions of people with such different characters.
How are myths born?
What I like the most, however, is the birth of a legend, because throughout the entire novel, we can see how a myth arises. It was really well thought out and this whole thread can both amuse and scare you a bit. After all, the truth is not easy to discover, but one has to hope that sooner or later it will come to light.
What to build a state-owned farm from?
The cover looks intriguing and eye-catching, so as soon as Fabryka Słów announced this item, I was genuinely intrigued by what Andrzej Pilipiuk could come up with. I must also praise the information on the wings, which perfectly introduce the atmosphere of the Ghost in the hovel and encourage you to visit Liszków.
Is it worth visiting Liszków?
The phantom in the hovel intrigued me from the beginning, and I was not disappointed in this novel. I received a fascinating story that unfolded over many years, with interesting characters and a lot of humor. What I liked the most, however, was the theme of an emerging legend. The Phantom of the Shack is another great work in Pilipiuk’s oeuvre, from which it is impossible to tear yourself away. I have always appreciated this author for his incredible ingenuity, and the latest novel only confirms that he has a lot of amazing proposals up his sleeve. I believe that everyone should visit Liszków, because it is a magical place full of secrets.
Most importantly, it turns out that ghosts don’t have to be so scary, so don’t be afraid and feel free to explore… unless you are the occupant, then at best you will end up in a dunghill!
