The Paris Wife, by Paula McLain, is about Ernest Hemingway’s first wife, Hadley. In a review that I read, McLain said that while researching Hemingway, she came across a statement where Hemingway said he would’ve rather died before hurting Hadley.
Such an interesting, sad statement.
Hadley and Hemingway (source: google)
This is the slowest I’ve ever read a book (I’m working on two months), but it’s because I am enjoying it.
The language is simple and beautiful.
Here is my one of my favorite parts: “I had just turned twenty-nine, but in a way I felt younger and more carefree than I did my first year at Bryn Mawr, when I couldn’t enjoy the smallest happiness or intimacy. It was as if I was experiencing a long-delayed coming out, and I was grateful for every minute of it.”
It’s possible, even probable, that one of the reasons that I am enjoying this book so much is because it resonates with me and some changes I am thinking about making in my life. I, too, feel that comfort with myself, and I’m okay with facing some of my fears.
Once I finish this book, I’ll update you with a more comprehensive review.
Tell us: what books “speak” to you? How do you face your fears? Any favorite quotes from books?
-SM