2000 Just Duffy - Robin Jenkins(Canongate Classics)

Nice clean copy paperback 

*Just Duffy* by Robin Jenkins, published in 1988, is a dark and introspective novel that explores themes of morality, guilt, and the nature of good and evil. The story centers around Duffy, an outsider with a troubled past, who lives a bleak and marginalized existence in Glasgow, Scotland. Duffy is not a typical protagonist—he is morally ambiguous and makes questionable decisions, which leads to the book’s examination of whether someone like him can ever be considered truly "good."

Duffy's life is marked by poverty, neglect, and alienation, and he constantly grapples with his sense of self-worth and place in the world. The novel traces his relationships and interactions with others, particularly with a wealthy couple who take an interest in him, and how these relationships ultimately affect his path in life.

Jenkins is known for his complex characters and moral questioning, and *Just Duffy* is no exception. The novel challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about society, human nature, and how individuals are often products of their environments. It asks profound questions about fate and personal responsibility, leaving the reader to ponder whether Duffy's actions are shaped by his circumstances or inherent character.

The novel’s tone is often somber and reflective, with Jenkins masterfully capturing the bleakness of Duffy’s inner world. Overall, *Just Duffy* is a compelling, thought-provoking work that examines the often blurred lines between right and wrong, offering no easy answers.