How often do we look at other couples and conclude that they are 'perfect' for each other - maybe because of how 'compatible' they look, or how their looks complement each other.
On the outside, Pauline and Michael look like the 'perfect' couple - both goodlooking and in the onset - looking so in love with each other.
However, Anne Tyler shows that which is often true in many marriages - that these outward signs are just mirages - and that the truth is - as the statistics are wont to show - half of these 'perfect' couples are heading to splitsville - and often end up with each spouse - wondering what made them fall in love with the other - in the first place.
I have always loved how Tyler shows these intimate portraits of imperfect families - of people wrapped up in themselves - they fail to see what the other members of their family really needs from them.
There is a major event that happens in the middle of the novel which really tests Michael and Pauline's marriage and for sometime they cope - but they soon realize that living with each other is hopeless.
The novel focuses mostly on the couple but it is interesting how their children and their grandchildren also come into play and influence the story.
I really enjoyed reading this as I love intimate novels of couples and imperfect families. I admire how Anne Tyler keeps making it fresh novel after novel.
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