“I’m not sure if fiction has overlooked restlessness in retirement – I know many strong novels that take on this subject and from various perspectives – and I do have two characters desperate to still matter and go on mattering. My focus on the restlessness was more to do with Selwyn and Ginny trying to fit together because they believe they’re supposed to fit together because they’ve been given this second chance, but neither wants to come fully clean to the other in case it ruins it.”

Big Issue North talks to Lisa Blower about Pondweed, her latest novel. Read the interview in full online now. Show your support for the The Big Issue by purchasing their latest issue from one of their street vendors or subscribe online.