Review of The Art of Dying
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Review of The Art of Dying
Mike Corwin's The Art of Dying was a compilation of six short stories and two novellas. The first story from which the book got its title was about Robert, a middle-aged man who decided to change his life by setting up camp on a secluded part of Folly Beach. Robert witnessed his first hurricane and even made an unexpected friend. "A New Orleans Life" introduced Gabriel Bon, a man who was more negroe than white, as he attempted to experience love in a society plagued by racism. "If I Had My Way in this Wicked World" told the story of Clyde Perkins, a ten-year-old boy who appeared to have a split personality and highlighted his battle with his internal demons. The stories in the book were a highlight of the characters' journies toward a higher purpose.
I found Robert's story the most heartwarming of all the short stories. Robert's character was symbolic of that part of every human being searching for themselves and their purpose in life. His journey was brave and encouraging, and the little delights he had when he discovered something new or just simply refreshing about himself were beautiful to read. He also taught readers that a meaningful life was more than material things. Robert's story left in its wake a melancholic aftertaste but was undoubtedly one that would move readers to their core. His experiences were well relayed; the author took readers into Robert's mind, making room for a strong connection with his character.
The author's characters were all exciting, and they had an air of mystery that surrounded them. Robert abandoned his city life to camp out on a beach; a weird young boy had a vengeful spirit; a handsome young man was a philosophy student but had well-hidden secrets he never wanted the world to know. The most striking thing about these characters would be their symbolic status. These characters seemed to represent human struggles from different backgrounds. This was seen in a terminally ill man's inner acceptance of fate, the bland life of an unattractive teenage girl, and the loss of faith by a man who had experienced loss. Each character seemed to be made for their story, and the author aptly projected their emotional states.
There was a common thread connecting all the stories: the search for the true meaning of life. Many of the characters were on a journey of personal probing into what it meant to lead not only an authentic life but also a meaningful life. This was aside from the common setting that ran through some stories, like New Orleans and Folly Beach. These connected the stories even more and created a visible familiarity with each story. One theme that the author also highlighted was racism and white supremacy, of which he still used the book to showcase the oneness of humanity, irrespective of race.
This book was indeed an emotional rollercoaster. From the melancholy of a dying man to the forlornness of a mentally unstable boy, The Art of Dying delivered the required emotions guaranteed to keep readers stuck to its pages. Though the book could do with further editing, there was nothing in this book that I didn't like.
This book would be appreciated by readers who not only love thought-provoking stories but are also students of life. I’d rate it four out of four stars.
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The Art of Dying
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A striking comment you've made.
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