The Farm

The farm is located in Pretoria, South Africa. The property, the house, and its surrounding landscapes and structures all belong to the Swart family. The majority of the novel takes place on the farm. The author uses this setting as a point of connection and division for Manie, Anton, Astrid, and Amor in particular. Whenever another member of their family dies, the characters must return to the farm. These reunions challenge them to reevaluate their relationships, their past experiences, and the possibilities of future connections. Over the course of the novel, the characters become increasingly at odds with the farm, as it symbolizes unrest, trauma, or conflict.

After Rachel and Manie's deaths, Anton inherits the farm. He lives here with his wife Desirée. When Amor returns for Astrid's funeral, she is shocked by how unkempt the property appears. Anton feels guilty and ashamed, yet also wants...