Thanks Be to the World

Larry Corbett, a film actor from Scotland, sets off on a trip. He aims to resolve the question of whether acting is something he wants to continue doing. Also in the back of his mind is a wish to find somewhere to settle down. He begins by travelling from Scotland’s Orkney Isles, his nominal base, to Glasgow, where he visits an uncle. While there he receives a letter from a friend and former colleague, Serenity Yunus. They have been out of touch since Serenity was caught up in civil conflict in her native Turkey. She now resides in England with her husband and children.

Larry writes her from Edinburgh. His time there and, afterwards, in London spur recollections of his years in fringe theatre and the breakthrough that led him into the film world. He also recalls his initial encounter with the films of the Turkish director Enis Mert. In Spain he completes a minor film role and recalls the part he played in a Mert-written project. Further travels there and in the Americas bring back memories of the three films he went on to make with Mert. In between times he goes on with the writing of a book. He proceeds to Turkey via Asia only to discover that his beloved mentor has died. Larry concludes his trip with a visit to Serenity, now separated from her husband. She praises his writing. Aware he has no home as such, she invites him to stay with her and the children.