ECONOGAL

Whistler by Ann Patchett is a heartfelt read. The title is derived by a short story within the story of a horse returning to save his mistress from death. Thus, Patchett uses parallelism throughout the novel.

Daphne Fuller reunites with a long-lost stepfather after a lifetime. Eddie Triplett and Daphne share a bond that runs deep. The divorce and her mother’s remarriage to yet another stepfather created distance between mother and oldest child. Because Daphne could not forget her love for Eddie.  Nor did she understand her mom’s needs and fears. After all she was still a child. Whistler gives insight to the story behind the story.

Daphne always believed it was her fault Eddie was cast out. After all, she was in the car when it slid off the hillside. But her mom’s fear for her safety was only a minor consideration. Back together again, Eddie reveals the truth behind the separation. Furthermore, he shares his regret. Would he do things differently if given another chance? And could he really ignore his true self?

And what would Daphne change? While she regrets never giving her next stepfather a chance, she is compassionate towards her half-brothers. More importantly, she was there for her biological father when he was going through chemo. Her memories of that are interspersed with the discovery of Eddie’s closeness with the man that came before him.

Parallels abound between Daphne and Eddie. Both are childless. Both have one true love. And both missed the other.

The future also plays a part in the restoration of the relationship between Daphne and Eddie. Will they finish the story of Whistler for publication?

The overarching theme of Whistler is the interconnection of life and death, and the decisions made along the path. The importance of family and close friends is part and parcel. Patchett illustrates connectivity through her secondary characters. All are closely intwined with the two leads. For Daphne, Leda is both best friend and sister. Jonathan is Daphne’s devoted husband.

Eddie has his confusing and conflicting yet undeniable ties to his college roommate along with the roommate’s wife of 50 years. Plus, his lost friendship to his ex-wife. Will they make amends? The novel packs surprises and questions about identities and how normal incidents can greatly impact us for the rest of our lives.

Whistler contains a range of emotions as the pages turn. The ending allows the reader to imagine how life will continue for all the characters. Yet, the final pages are conclusive. Daphne and her family, including Eddie, weave a place in the reader’s heart.

Finally, the original Whistler earns his story. This is a don’t miss book.