"Endgame"

 

    In my Theatre Appreciation class, we were asked to read Samuel Beckett's play, Endgame. The story takes place in the future with a demolished world, besides one family. The family ponders on the loss they have faced from this catastrophe and the pain that life ensues. Hamm, the main character, questions life and talks about all of his pain. Hamm's only concern is the pain of life. This leads the readers to question whether that is the truth. As a reader, I reflect on the ideas and concepts that we deem important in life and if they are worth the pain.

   At a point in time when there seems to be a lot of chaos and destruction in the world, it was somewhat easy to relate. There are times I feel like Hamm, there is nothing good in the world. But I know that is not completely true. Although there are many times when there seems to be no hope, there is always something to look forward to. Hamm remembers all of the pain that he has faced in life and questions if it was all worth it. He repeatedly states that the Earth is something that everyone needs a cure for, which is frankly quite depressing. 

   Towards the end of the story, Hamm's caretaker, Clove sees a young girl in the distance and debates whether he should go and help her. He feels drawn to her and believes he should leave the delirious family and save himself. If you look deeper into the meaning of the situation it is easy to relate. Should we all stay where we are because it is the only thing we know, or should we see if there is more outside?

   I think this was a great story, but it was hard at times to read. If there is some confusion over the plot it might be helpful to watch the play or movie version for a better understanding. Beckett leaves the readers with a lot of questions about how closely the story relates to us all now. 

Rating: 2.8/5 Stars

Didn't See That Coming

 

   In the heat of the pandemic, my favorite author, Rachel Hollis, produced an honest book about dealing with tragedy. She was beginning to write this book about other experiences of her life when her husband and she decided to get a divorce. In all of her past books, she speaks about not talking from open wounds. She had to reexamine her writing and adapt it to the things she was currently going through. I thought her writings were extremely raw and opened up a vulnerable part about Rachel.   At the end of each chapter, Rachel offered some tips about things that helped her through tough times. This was helpful to relate to the author and show the reader they are not alone.

    One of the common themes throughout her most recent books is the trauma that came from her brother's suicide. She opened up about the story behind that day and decided that it would be most helpful to come to terms with the trauma by talking through it. I was surprised that she finally had talked about this event. It was completely vulnerable and impressive to see her courage to share. 

  One of the biggest points that I got for her was that even though you may be going through a hard time, you need to show up for the people in your life. I think it is incredibly important to be open about your feelings, but continue to show up. I do think this was an important book to write, but I feel like it was a little too preachy. She constantly points out that grief is different for everyone, but you still need to complete your obligations. I think it was a broad statement and a bit judgmental. I think the book was very insightful but was harsh at times. 

  At the time that I read the book, I did not have any extremely troublesome situations in my life, but this would be a perfect guide to working through grief. I would encourage this book to anyone going through a tough time and needs a little extra help picking up the pieces of their life. 

Rating: 3.2/5 Stars