An Apostate: Nawin of Thais

"An Apostate: Nawin of Thais" by Steven David Justin Sills is a novel written in the early 21st century. The narrative centers around Nawin Biadklang, a conflicted artist grappling with guilt over the death of his lover, Kimberly, as well as his tumultuous relationship with his wife, Noppawan. Set against a backdrop of existential musings and reflections on identity, this work delves deep into themes of personal tragedy, artistic ambition, and the dark corners of human desire. At the start of the novel, Nawin finds himself on a train bound for Nongkhai, battling insomnia and memories of his past, particularly the tragic fall of Kimberly and the mounting issues in his marriage. As he observes his surroundings, he reflects on the absurdities of life and societal expectations, intertwining his mundane actions with profound insights about love, loss, and regret. The opening also introduces colorful, sometimes grotesque imagery, capturing the internal chaos of Nawin's mind as he vacillates between self-loathing, nostalgia, and a peculiar search for connection, ultimately setting the stage for a deeper exploration of his character and the implications of his existential journey.