If you’re looking for a “feel-good” read, this may not be the book for you. If you love to discover the inner workings of minds of those whose thought processes differ from the norm, then this book is definitely for you.
Sebold wonderfully captures the all too often blurred lines of right and wrong. The enhancement of perspective in these morally questionable situations is brought to light, and the reader is taken on an introspective journey of consequence. Helen, the protagonist of the story, makes what she thinks are reasonable decisions at the time she makes them. The rest of the novel reveals that her thought processes were definitely altered by immediate circumstance, and she begins to question not only that first pivotal decision that she made, but her entire life in general.
Phrases such as “Habits were comforting in a way that love wasn’t” and “I stood, regretfully, and bid good-bye to the Sunday painters I had been taught to condemn” give the reader an inclination into Helen’s childhood that are of deeper content than the flashbacks she has throughout the story. The feeling of dissociation throughout is also telling of her emotional state growing up in the house she describes, and which follows her for the rest of her life.
Not only will this novel allow the reader to explore a multitude of opportunities in the way of aforementioned decisions and consequences, but it also provides another perspective on the subject of suicide, (as well as murder) and its repercussions. Perhaps this novel will bring to light another way to view those who are inflicted with depression and the hindrances it brings to daily life.
Overall, the story is poetically written and the plot holds the reader’s attention even though the entirety takes place over the course of 24 hours. This is a great read for a thought provoking conversation within a book club, or simply to challenge the mind. I’d love to discuss any details with you here, and as always, thank you for reading into my thoughts.
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