Lucy by the Sea by Elizabeth Strout

***My Review ***

In Elizabeth Strout’s latest masterpiece “Lucy by the Sea”, Lucy Barton once again graces the pages, but this time in the midst of a global pandemic. Strout’s tender and profound depiction of Lucy’s experiences during lockdown resonates with readers who are also grappling with the implications of Covid-19. Lucy is whisked away from New York to the Maine coastal town of Crosby by William, her ex-husband, who is determined to save her. Little does she know that she will never return to her apartment again.

Through Lucy’s eyes, Strout portrays the feelings of loneliness, isolation, anxiety, fear, panic, grief, love, and loss that so many of us have experienced during these challenging times. The complicated relationship between Lucy and William is also explored, as they find comfort in each other despite their past issues. Strout’s non-judgmental and compassionate approach to her characters, old and new, creates a web of connections that reveals the beauty and fragility of human relationships.

As Lucy navigates her new life in Crosby, she develops a meaningful connection with Bob Burgess and begins to see beyond the stereotypical Trump supporters through meeting Charlene at the food pantry. Through her struggles and challenges, Lucy finds hope and light in the darkest of times, and Strout’s underlying wisdom reminds us of the importance of reflection, resilience, and understanding of others in our communities.

This contemplative novel is a beautiful and heartwarming journey through the complexities of human emotions and relationships. Lucy’s experiences during the pandemic will resonate with readers who have also faced similar challenges, and Strout’s portrayal of hope and resilience is a welcome reminder of the power of the human spirit.

What makes Strout’s writing so compelling is her ability to delve into the inner workings of her characters’ minds and emotions. Through Lucy’s introspective thoughts and observations, the reader gains insight into what it might be like to be a different person. Strout’s storytelling is nuanced and layered, and readers will find themselves deeply immersed in Lucy’s story.

Initially, I was restless to quicken the pace of the narrative, urging the words to match the frenzied chatter in my mind. However, as I delved deeper into the story, I found myself spellbound. Despite the characters’ passivity – which is not typically my cup of tea – I gradually acclimated to the author’s unique style. Lucy’s voice became so vivid in my head that I could have been channeling Strout herself, uttering phrases aloud that sounded exactly like Lucy’s.

What sets Strout apart, in my opinion, is her skill in revealing Lucy’s emotions without resorting to telling. It’s as though Lucy is sitting across from us, confiding her thoughts and feelings. Her character is so authentic, relatable, and intelligent, with a touch of melancholy yet infused with verve. She examines her mistakes and motivations unflinchingly, without making excuses. Her insightful musings on loneliness, death, regret, and the struggle to truly understand others had me awestruck.

The novel delves into the complexities of the COVID lockdown in a nuanced manner, with varying degrees of success. William, a scientist, recognizes the early threat of the virus and takes Lucy away from New York to Maine in March 2020. The couple grapples with recent trauma, including Lucy’s widowhood and William’s recent divorce, as well as their past decisions. They re-explore their relationship and worry about the safety and marriages of their two grown-up daughters, all while navigating the harsh reality of lockdown.

Throughout the novel, Lucy’s insecurities and her desire to empathize with others, as well as with herself and her past, are given ample space. The novel accurately captures the sense of uncertainty and reflection that many people experienced during the COVID lockdown. Additionally, the novel engages with other national events during lockdown with a great deal of nuance and depth.

While the pandemic is a central theme in this book, it’s ultimately a story about human relationships and the complexities of the human experience. Strout brings back beloved characters from previous novels, adding depth and richness to the story. Her writing is beautiful and moving, and it’s easy to become lost in the world she has created.

Overall, Strout has once again delivered a masterful novel that will leave readers with a deeper understanding of the human condition. Her ability to bring characters to life and create a compelling narrative is nothing short of extraordinary. Lucy by the Sea by Elizabeth Strout is a must-read for anyone looking for a thought-provoking and deeply moving story.