North Carolina

The novel is set in Brunswick County on the coast of North Carolina, specifically in the seaside towns of Oak Island (most of which is on the island of the same name), and neighboring Southport (on the mainland). Winston lives on the island, but he is constantly traveling around the wider area. Rather than focusing on a distinct town or community, the novel explores a network of locations, giving an impression of urban sprawl. Thus, the airport (which belongs to Oak Island) and the Food Lion store (in the vicinity of Southport) sit within easy distance of each other, off the same stretch of road. This refusal to simplify the setting reflects the author’s commitment to setting forth a real place – albeit in a different time – rather than inventing one.

The novel also characterizes the region in terms of its rural beauty – forest and wetlands – although...