I loved this, Clare. So much resonated so strongly, particularly this sentiment: "Life’s challenges and pains are not lost on her: they are the encouragement to care for others and to resist falling into a trap of isolation.". To try our best to not allow the sad and difficult parts of life to harden us; to refuse to give in to "what's the point"; to resist becoming selfish and insular, cynical and inward-focussed; to keep reminding ourselves that the only way to survive the hardships that befall us, the fear and sadness in the world, is to love, and let ourselves be loved.
I hadn't heard of "The Hunger of Women", but it sounds made for me and I can't wait to seek it out. From Naples to Lombardy (same as my family), and pages of descriptions of food and meals: what more could I want from a book!
Also, I meant to say: the pictures of the food and the table layout, the descriptions of nestled into couch corners, eating from the jar, dancing while washing up - beautiful beautiful beautiful writing and imagery. Cosy is exactly right 💜
What else is there (joy)? Beautifully written. Happy New Year!
Happy new year! ❤️
I loved this, Clare. So much resonated so strongly, particularly this sentiment: "Life’s challenges and pains are not lost on her: they are the encouragement to care for others and to resist falling into a trap of isolation.". To try our best to not allow the sad and difficult parts of life to harden us; to refuse to give in to "what's the point"; to resist becoming selfish and insular, cynical and inward-focussed; to keep reminding ourselves that the only way to survive the hardships that befall us, the fear and sadness in the world, is to love, and let ourselves be loved.
I hadn't heard of "The Hunger of Women", but it sounds made for me and I can't wait to seek it out. From Naples to Lombardy (same as my family), and pages of descriptions of food and meals: what more could I want from a book!
Also, I meant to say: the pictures of the food and the table layout, the descriptions of nestled into couch corners, eating from the jar, dancing while washing up - beautiful beautiful beautiful writing and imagery. Cosy is exactly right 💜
I’ll be so curious to hear your thoughts if/when you read The Hunger of Women! It’s a book I want to reread and write about more