The first of two novels, Gliff, which is a Scottish/northern word for a shock, a fright, a transient moment, a glance or sudden glimpse, will be followed by a second novel in 2025, called Glyph (a signifying mark - as in 'hieroglyph'). Glyph, the second novel, will tell a story which is hidden in the first so the two books will belong together but can be read independently. The two books will form a new step in Ali's writing journey, different in form and feeling from the Seasonal Quartet (plus Companion piece) and will look very different too. Ali always keeps her novels under wraps until they are finished, and the surprise of reading a book only when it is complete, knowing almost nothing of its content, is part of the magic.
Ali Smith
Ali Smith is a Scottish author known for her innovative and experimental writing style. She is best known for her seasonal quartet of novels, which includes "Autumn," "Winter," "Spring," and "Summer." Smith's works often blend genres and incorporate elements of postmodernism, feminism, and social commentary. She has been praised for her lyrical prose, sharp wit, and ability to capture the complexities of contemporary life. Smith's contributions to literature have earned her numerous awards and accolades, solidifying her reputation as one of the most important voices in contemporary fiction. Her most famous work is often considered to be "How to be Both," which won the 2015 Baileys Women's Prize for Fiction and was shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize.