ECONOGAL

All The Beauty In The World: The Metropolitan Museum of Art And Me by Patrick Bringley is the most insightful and hauntingly beautiful memoir I have ever read. The author shares the pain of losing a sibling way to early and how a position as a security guard at the Metropolitan of Art helps him heal along with the passage of ten years. His descriptions of the plethora of masterpieces on display shine through the rote and routine of grief.

The reader only glimpses his home life. Much of what is depicted is life at the museum. Bringley focuses on his interactions with co-workers, the public, and most importantly the art. The beginning of his tenure is tinged with raw grief. As the years pass, his reflections encompass grief, current life and thoughts about the future.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art encompasses history of mankind and beyond. Illustrations include a map as a reminder to those who have visited. For those without that pleasure, the map and illustrations of various art pieces will stir a desire to visit New York, if only to walk through the museum.

Bringley does justice with his descriptions. Not just the masterpieces, but also how the public interacts with the museum itself. Various types of individuals are described, both good and not so good. From chattering school children to college student to art lovers, the museum welcomes all.

The book came recommended by a family member. Perhaps she guessed I might be ready for this introspective on grief. Certainly, my last five years have brought forward much pain. The glimpses into Bringley’s private life allow one to feel a connection. Reconciliation of the loss of a loved one does not occur in just a few months. It takes years.

Perhaps others in similar situations will also relate. If so, my hope is that All The Beauty In The World: The Metropolitan Museum Of Art And Me brings you peace. Life does not stop for the living. There are new challenges and new seasons. Many reasons to keep living.

I highly recommend All the Beauty In The World. My parents took me to many museums. (Although I first stepped into The Metropolitan Museum of Art with college roommates.) Then we took my children. Now, my husband and I accompany our children while they introduce their children to the many wonderful museums. And of the many museums, The Met is at the top.

However, Bringley’s memoir is so much more than the inspiration of art. The process of grief differs for each individual. The loss of a parent, child, sibling, mentor or close friend brings a change that cannot be undone. Death is permanent. Patrick Bringley understands this. Furthermore, All The Beauty In The World is his acknowledgement of his brother’s passing; an uncle his children will only know through stories. And this story is a great tribute.

If you are grieving or know someone who is, buy this book, read and if appropriate, share. The memoir is as beautiful as the art at The Metropolitan Museum.