"Truth and Beauty"

“Truth and Beauty,” by Ann Patchett, is a stunningly written memoir about two lives that seemingly mesh into one. This true tale introduces Ann Patchett and Lucy Grealy—two strong, female writers who met in college. Ever since their first encounter, they had become inseparable from one another.  Although both women had lead very independent, successful lives, this story does not focus solely on just Ann’s life or just Lucy’s life, but the parts of their lives that they shared together.

Throughout the story, love, fame, drugs, and despair all affect and influence the decisions of Ann and Lucy. But no matter how severe the consequences of their decisions turned out to be, they both had each other’s back. Patchett clearly captures the devotion, intensity, and passion in their relationship. For example, in a letter addressed to Ann, Lucy writes, “Dearest Anngora, my cynical pirate of the elusive heart, my self-winding watch, my showpiece, my shoelace, how are you?”  Their story is simply a love story, a deep relationship, an account of dedication and commitment so memorable and inspiring that it is not even comparable to the conventional friendship.

Told first hand, Ann describes the relationship vividly. Her writing is extremely detail oriented and captivating. I cannot tell you how many times I wanted to put this book down and write a little myself! Her character and voice, completely unique and unwavering, shine through each page, reeling you in with light nuances and imaginary poetic form.  Just like the title itself, Ann captures truth and beauty of a friendship through a writing style that is absolutely riveting.

Overall, this is a tender –but brutal—book that focuses on the idea about loving the person we cannot save. It also touches on loyalty and honesty, as well the sheer enjoyment and happiness that arises when surrounded by a person who knew how to live life to the fullest.