The Comfort of Strangers

About “The Comfort of Strangers”

Colin and Mary are lovers traveling in Italy, but their relationship grows strained as they feel distant from each other. They move from place to place without direction, feeling bored and disconnected. They meet Robert and his wife, Caroline, who is crippled. The encounter offers a temporary escape from their own troubles. However, Robert and Caroline insist that Colin and Mary stay with them, leading to strange and unsettling developments. During their time together, Colin and Mary rediscover their attraction, while also becoming involved in an erotic and violent dynamic with Robert and Caroline. The novel builds a sense of dread that culminates in an unpredictable and shocking ending. Published in 1981, the book is a notable work by Ian McEwan.