The Goldfinch is a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel written by Donna Tartt, published in 2013. Tartt, an American author renowned for her intricate and captivating writing style, gained significant acclaim with this book, which follows the life of Theo Decker, a boy who survives a terrorist bombing in a New York museum. Amidst the chaos, he steals a small painting called The Goldfinch, which becomes a symbol of his fractured life.
This novel belongs to the genre of literary fiction, with elements of mystery, tragedy, and philosophical exploration woven throughout. The Goldfinch touches on themes of loss, trauma, art, and the search for meaning in life.
The novel spans many years and locations, from New York to Las Vegas to Amsterdam, depicting Theo’s journey from a grieving child to a troubled adult. Tartt’s rich prose and complex character development make the book a compelling read that tackles deep emotional and moral questions.
The Goldfinch is a profound narrative about love, loss, and the pursuit of redemption. Donna Tartt masterfully explores the psychological impacts of trauma through Theo’s story, using the stolen painting as a metaphor for his life.
The novel is both a thrilling literary adventure and a reflection on how art can shape and transform us, making it a significant work in contemporary fiction.
Table of Contents
1. Background
Donna Tartt’s The Goldfinch arrived after a long hiatus following her previous works, cementing her status as one of the most intricate novelists of her generation. Tartt’s earlier work, The Secret History (1992), also a highly regarded novel, focused on a group of classics students caught in a crime, and it quickly became a cult classic.
In contrast, The Goldfinch is a far more sprawling narrative, both in terms of time and space, and has a broader focus, taking in themes of art, destiny, and the consequences of trauma.
The novel is deeply embedded in art, and Tartt herself has said that the idea of the book came from her interest in the power and influence of art in people’s lives. The painting The Goldfinch by Carel Fabritius, which becomes the central object of the novel, is a real piece of art that survived the destruction of the artist’s studio in 1654.
In this way, the novel not only explores the influence of a piece of art on a single individual but also delves into how historical and cultural events can shape the perception and value of art across centuries.
The book also touches upon contemporary issues such as trauma and its effects on the human psyche. Theo’s journey, which begins with the tragic bombing of the museum, presents a meditation on survival, guilt, and the ways in which people rebuild their identities in the aftermath of devastating loss.
Historical and Cultural Context:
While the novel is contemporary in setting, it draws on a rich cultural history of art, especially Dutch Golden Age painting. By linking a modern tragedy with the world of 17th-century art, Tartt crafts a narrative that is both deeply personal and wide-ranging in its examination of culture.
The novel’s depiction of the art world and its merciless, sometimes exploitative nature adds layers of complexity to the story, making the relationship between Theo and The Goldfinch a powerful one, symbolizing not just his personal survival but also his grappling with what constitutes value and meaning in life.
2. Summary of the Book
Plot Overview:
The Goldfinch begins with a harrowing tragedy that shapes the course of Theo Decker’s life. As a young boy, Theo survives a terrorist bombing at a New York museum that takes the life of his mother, leaving him alone and devastated. Amidst the chaos of the attack, Theo makes a split-second decision to steal The Goldfinch, a small painting by Carel Fabritius.
This act of desperation sets off a chain of events that spans more than a decade, during which Theo grapples with profound grief, guilt, and the constant pull of the painting that has become both a symbol of his survival and a burden on his conscience.
Theo is taken in by the Barbours, a wealthy family of one of his schoolmates, after his mother’s death. However, his grief and sense of displacement make it difficult for him to truly belong in their world. He feels lost and adrift, torn between his memories of his mother and his new life, until he finds solace in Hobie, an antique furniture restorer who works at a small shop that Theo begins visiting after the bombing.
Hobie becomes a father figure to Theo, offering him wisdom and love, even as Theo’s life spirals further into chaos.
Theo’s obsession with the painting deepens, leading him into the world of art forgery and the criminal underworld, where he becomes involved with a series of morally ambiguous characters, such as Boris, a Russian expatriate and friend who leads him down a dangerous path. As Theo grows older, his emotional instability and self-destructive tendencies put him at odds with those who care for him. Throughout the novel, the painting remains a central symbol, reflecting Theo’s internal struggle and his quest for redemption.
The novel takes Theo to Las Vegas, Amsterdam, and back to New York, capturing his turbulent journey through the dark recesses of his psyche, and his complicated relationship with the people who impact his life. Through it all, The Goldfinch serves as a reminder of the beauty and pain that coexist in art, life, and memory.
Setting:
The setting of The Goldfinch plays a crucial role in shaping the narrative, as it mirrors Theo’s emotional and psychological journey. The novel spans multiple locations, beginning in the bustling streets of New York, where the terrorist attack shatters Theo’s world, to the isolated desert landscapes of Las Vegas, where Theo becomes entangled in a web of crime and addiction.
The change in setting symbolizes Theo’s shifting state of mind—from the chaos of the bombing in New York to the calm yet oppressive heat of the desert. His return to New York in the later stages of the book signals a reckoning with his past and the opportunity for a potential resolution.
In Amsterdam, the story takes on a more reflective tone, as Theo grapples with his role in the world and the consequences of his actions. Each setting acts as a backdrop to Theo’s internal conflict, where external environments reflect his inner turmoil. The art-filled spaces of New York’s museums and the warm, intimate shop of Hobie offer brief glimpses of solace, while the harsh desert of Las Vegas and the seedy underbelly of Amsterdam highlight the darker sides of Theo’s life.
3. Analysis
3.1. Characters
The characters in The Goldfinch are deeply complex and intricately developed, each representing different facets of the human experience.
The story revolves around Theo Decker, the protagonist, whose life is forever altered by the tragic loss of his mother in the bombing. As a child, Theo is portrayed as a sensitive, intelligent boy with a deep love for art, particularly The Goldfinch. His relationship with his mother, a strong and loving figure, forms the emotional core of his character, and her death becomes the defining event of his life.
Theo’s development is shaped by his inner struggles with grief and guilt, which manifest in self-destructive behaviors. His obsession with the painting is symbolic of his larger struggle to find meaning in a world that has suddenly become chaotic and painful. Through his relationship with Hobie, an antique furniture restorer who becomes a surrogate father figure, Theo experiences love and stability, though he is ultimately unable to escape his demons.
Boris, a key secondary character, is one of the most compelling figures in the novel. His friendship with Theo is tumultuous and fraught with contradictions. Boris is a Russian expatriate who leads a reckless, dangerous life, full of drugs, crime, and nihilism. He becomes a catalyst for Theo’s deeper descent into moral ambiguity, yet their bond is a deeply influential one.
Boris is also a mirror to Theo’s own struggles, with his chaotic, often violent behavior contrasting with Theo’s more internalized emotional turmoil. Their relationship is fraught with tension, but it is also a reflection of Theo’s search for companionship and identity in the absence of a stable family structure.
Other key characters include the Barbours, the wealthy family who takes Theo in after his mother’s death. Mrs. Barbour is a distant, icy figure, while her husband, James, is more sympathetic. They provide Theo with a home but also remind him of his displacement—he is constantly aware of his status as an outsider in their world.
Hobie stands in stark contrast to the Barbours; he is warm, nurturing, and offers Theo a sense of belonging that he cannot find in the Barbour household. Each of these characters plays an important role in shaping Theo’s journey, either as sources of comfort or as reflections of his deeper conflicts.
Theo’s relationship with his deceased mother is also central to the character dynamics in the novel. Her image, especially after her death, haunts Theo throughout the story, guiding his decisions and giving him a sense of direction in times of emotional crisis. Her influence is evident in his love for art and his moral compass, even as he struggles with his darker impulses.
3.2. Writing Style and Structure
Donna Tartt’s writing style in The Goldfinch is both lyrical and introspective, marked by rich descriptions and a deep exploration of the psychological landscape of her characters. Her prose is dense and often meditative, capturing the nuances of Theo’s emotional state and his internal struggles with striking clarity.
The novel’s pacing, however, can be slow, which may be challenging for some readers, especially given the breadth of the story’s scope. Tartt takes her time to delve into the intricacies of Theo’s psyche, and while this can create a deeply immersive experience, it also means that the plot sometimes lingers in introspective moments for longer than necessary.
The structure of the novel is non-linear, with the narrative jumping between different periods of Theo’s life. The story begins in the aftermath of the bombing, with Theo as an adult reflecting on the events that have shaped his life.
The back-and-forth between past and present creates a sense of reflection, as Theo tries to make sense of the tragic event and its long-term consequences. The fragmented structure mirrors Theo’s fragmented sense of self, as he struggles to reconcile his past with his present.
Tartt’s use of symbolism is another defining feature of the novel. The painting The Goldfinch itself is a symbol of Theo’s emotional baggage, a tangible representation of his trauma, guilt, and the weight of his survival. The novel also features recurring motifs, such as the idea of “lost things” and the fleeting nature of beauty and life, particularly in the descriptions of Dutch Golden Age paintings, where still lifes often depict decaying fruit or rotting flowers.
3.3. Themes and Symbolism
The central themes of The Goldfinch are those of loss, grief, and the search for meaning. Theo’s journey is one of coming to terms with the death of his mother and the emotional chaos that follows. The novel explores how trauma can distort one’s identity and how, despite the pain, people often continue to carry the weight of their pasts with them.
Theo’s obsession with The Goldfinch symbolizes his desire to hold onto something beautiful, something permanent, amidst the wreckage of his life. The painting represents a form of solace, but it is also a constant reminder of his guilt and loss.
The novel also explores the theme of art and its transformative power. Theo’s relationship with The Goldfinch is one of reverence, obsession, and, ultimately, redemption. The painting becomes not just an object of beauty but a symbol of survival. As Theo moves through life, the painting represents the possibility of healing, but it also serves as a reminder of the darkness he must confront.
Tartt also addresses themes of fate and free will, as Theo’s life is shaped by both external forces (such as the bombing and his relationships with others) and his own choices. The novel raises questions about how much control we have over our own lives, and whether the choices we make are truly our own, or whether they are the result of a series of random events.
3.4. Genre-Specific Elements
As a work of literary fiction, The Goldfinch adheres to the genre’s conventions of deep character study and thematic exploration.
However, it also incorporates elements of a psychological thriller, particularly in the second half of the novel, where Theo becomes involved in the world of art forgery and criminal enterprises. The novel is not just a study of loss and art, but also a tense exploration of the underworld, as Theo’s choices lead him deeper into morally ambiguous territory.
The novel’s structure, with its intricate plot and character-driven narrative, allows it to appeal to a wide range of readers. It is recommended for those who enjoy slow-burn narratives that dive deep into the psyche of their characters and explore complex themes of loss, identity, and the transformative power of art. Fans of literary fiction, as well as those who appreciate books that challenge the boundaries of genre, will find much to admire in The Goldfinch.
4. Evaluation
Strengths:
One of the most compelling strengths of The Goldfinch is Donna Tartt’s ability to create richly detailed characters that feel both real and complex.
Theo Decker is a protagonist whose emotional struggles resonate deeply with readers, as his journey mirrors the universal experience of grappling with grief, trauma, and the search for identity.
The way Tartt develops Theo’s character, showing his vulnerabilities, moral conflicts, and relationships, makes him a multifaceted and empathetic figure. His struggle to reconcile his past with his present is portrayed with raw honesty, making his character one of the most memorable in modern literature.
The symbolism and thematic exploration of art is another powerful strength. The Goldfinch is not just a novel about one boy’s journey; it’s a meditation on how art can shape lives, how beauty can be both redemptive and destructive. The painting The Goldfinch serves as a central metaphor for Theo’s fractured identity, and its significance is woven throughout the narrative in a way that makes it feel as much a character as any of the people Theo interacts with.
The book’s deep engagement with art history—particularly the Dutch Golden Age and the symbolism of still life paintings—adds layers of meaning that will resonate with readers familiar with art, as well as those learning about it for the first time.
The prose in The Goldfinch is also a standout feature. Tartt’s writing is rich, evocative, and often beautiful. Her descriptions of settings, emotions, and characters are immersive and deeply sensory.
She has a remarkable ability to evoke the emotional undercurrents of a scene, whether it’s the heartache of Theo’s loss, the desolate beauty of the desert in Las Vegas, or the haunting beauty of a painting. This kind of writing makes The Goldfinch an experience that stays with readers long after they’ve turned the last page.
Weaknesses:
However, while The Goldfinch is undeniably well-crafted, it is not without its flaws. The novel’s pacing is one of its most frequently criticized aspects. At times, the story can feel slow, particularly in the middle sections, where the focus shifts to Theo’s internal struggles and his immersion in the criminal underworld.
While this provides rich character development, some readers may find it repetitive or unnecessarily drawn out. The novel’s length—clocking in at over 700 pages—also contributes to the pacing issues, as there are moments when the narrative feels overly long and meandering, slowing down the forward momentum.
Another critique of The Goldfinch is its portrayal of certain characters and relationships. Some of the secondary characters, particularly those involved in the criminal aspects of the story, feel underdeveloped or one-dimensional.
Boris, while a compelling character in his own right, is at times written in a way that makes him feel more like a plot device than a fully realized individual. His relationship with Theo is central to the novel, but their dynamic sometimes feels a bit contrived, as if their connection is more about driving the plot forward than about genuine emotional bonding.
Finally, while The Goldfinch is deeply philosophical, some readers might find the book’s exploration of art and trauma overly intellectual or inaccessible at times.
The novel’s depth and complexity can be overwhelming, and its dense, descriptive prose might alienate readers who are looking for a more straightforward narrative. There are moments when the novel becomes so introspective that it risks losing the reader’s engagement, particularly for those who are not as invested in the psychological and emotional exploration of its themes.
Impact:
Despite these weaknesses, The Goldfinch remains a profoundly moving and intellectually stimulating work. The emotional depth of the story, the philosophical questions it raises about art, trauma, and identity, and its vivid characterizations make it a book worth reading and reflecting upon.
For those who enjoy literary fiction that challenges them emotionally and intellectually, The Goldfinch offers an enriching experience that lingers long after the final pages.
The novel’s depiction of Theo’s journey from grief-stricken child to troubled adult mirrors the universal experience of coping with loss and finding a way to move forward. Through the lens of Theo’s obsession with art and the impact of the painting The Goldfinch, the novel explores how beauty can be both redemptive and destructive, and how individuals create meaning out of their personal tragedies.
Comparison with Similar Works:
In terms of thematic content, The Goldfinch can be compared to works such as The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger, which similarly deals with themes of grief, trauma, and the search for meaning in a fragmented world.
Like Holden Caulfield, Theo Decker is a character who feels disconnected from the world around him, struggling to find a place for himself in a life that seems out of his control.
The novel can also be compared to other contemporary works of literary fiction that deal with the themes of art and the human condition, such as The Secret History by Donna Tartt herself, or The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro, which also examines the complexities of memory and personal responsibility.
Reception and Criticism:
Upon its release, The Goldfinch received widespread acclaim and was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2014. Critics praised Tartt’s ability to weave a gripping and emotionally resonant narrative, and her mastery of prose was frequently lauded.
However, the book also faced criticism for its length and pacing issues, with some readers finding it overly dense and slow-moving. Despite this, The Goldfinch has become a modern classic, admired for its ambitious scope and its ability to explore deep philosophical questions within the framework of a compelling narrative.
Adaptation:
In 2019, The Goldfinch was adapted into a film, directed by John Crowley. The film received mixed reviews, with critics praising the performances of the cast, particularly Ansel Elgort as Theo, but criticizing the adaptation for not fully capturing the emotional depth and complexity of the novel.
The challenges of translating such a rich, intricate story into a feature film led to a somewhat diluted version of the source material, which left fans of the novel divided over its success as an adaptation.
Valuable and Notable Information:
For readers looking for deeper engagement with The Goldfinch, Tartt’s exploration of art history is both informative and enriching.
The novel delves into the history of Dutch Golden Age painting, providing insights into the symbolism of works like The Goldfinch and The Anatomy Lesson. Readers with an interest in art will find this aspect of the book particularly fascinating, as Tartt seamlessly weaves art history into the personal narrative.
5. Personal Insight with Contemporary Educational Relevance
The Goldfinch touches on themes that are highly relevant to contemporary educational discussions, particularly those surrounding the impact of trauma, art, and personal identity on learning and development. In an era where mental health and the effects of trauma are at the forefront of educational and psychological discourse, Theo Decker’s journey offers important insights into the ways grief and loss shape one’s emotional and intellectual life.
Trauma and Its Educational Impact:
Theo’s experiences—losing his mother in a bombing, grappling with feelings of guilt and isolation, and struggling to find stability—demonstrate the profound effects trauma can have on a young mind.
The novel serves as a reminder of how crucial it is for educators and parents to recognize the long-term psychological effects of traumatic events on children and young adults. In a classroom setting, for instance, Theo’s emotional scars and his struggle to concentrate are clear examples of how trauma can affect cognitive and emotional development.
His disengagement from the world around him, his tendency to turn inward, and his obsession with The Goldfinch are symptoms of the way grief and loss can obstruct a young person’s ability to form healthy relationships, make decisions, and develop academically.
In educational contexts, this underscores the importance of trauma-informed teaching. As more schools and universities begin to understand the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on student learning, The Goldfinch can serve as an example of how trauma plays out in a student’s psyche.
By understanding Theo’s internal world, educators can develop better tools and strategies for supporting students who are coping with their own traumatic experiences, ensuring that they have the emotional and psychological support they need to succeed.
Art as a Path to Healing and Expression:
Theo’s relationship with The Goldfinch serves as an exploration of art as both a refuge and a means of self-expression. In contemporary education, there has been a growing recognition of the therapeutic value of art in helping individuals process emotions, express themselves, and connect with others.
In Theo’s case, his connection to the painting becomes a lifeline, allowing him to make sense of his grief and find some semblance of meaning in the world around him. Art offers Theo a way to cope with his emotional turmoil, as he finds solace in the painting’s beauty even while wrestling with the guilt of having stolen it.
This highlights the importance of incorporating art and creative expression into educational settings. Whether through visual arts, music, theater, or literature, creative endeavors provide students with a safe outlet to explore their emotions and engage with difficult subjects.
In schools and universities, art can serve as a tool for personal growth and healing, offering students the opportunity to navigate complex emotions and find their voice.
The Role of Identity in Learning:
Another significant theme in The Goldfinch is the search for identity. Throughout the novel, Theo struggles with feelings of being an outsider, not only in the Barbour family but also in the broader social and academic environments he finds himself in.
His constant search for belonging, coupled with his growing emotional instability, underscores the idea that personal identity plays a crucial role in a student’s academic and personal development. In education, it is essential to recognize the ways in which a student’s sense of self influences their ability to engage with learning materials, relationships with peers, and overall academic success.
Theo’s identity crisis is compounded by the absence of a stable family structure, which highlights the importance of supportive familial and community environments in a student’s life.
Teachers, mentors, and peers all play a role in helping students develop a sense of self-worth and belonging. The Goldfinch reminds us of the deep connection between identity, mental health, and learning, urging educators to create spaces where students feel accepted and valued for who they are.
Contemporary Reflection on Art and Cultural Preservation:
In a broader context, The Goldfinch speaks to the importance of preserving culture and history through art, which is especially relevant in today’s world where cultural artifacts are at risk due to natural disasters, political instability, and theft.
Theo’s stolen painting—once part of a greater artistic and cultural tradition—becomes a symbol of how history can be lost, stolen, or forgotten. This resonates with ongoing global conversations about the repatriation of cultural artifacts and the need to preserve art for future generations.
In contemporary education, The Goldfinch can inspire students to think critically about the value of art not just as a commodity, but as a vital part of cultural heritage and historical understanding. It encourages students to reflect on the role of art in shaping their own identities and how they can contribute to the preservation and appreciation of culture in a rapidly changing world.
The Importance of Art History in Education:
Lastly, the novel emphasizes the importance of art history and critical thinking about art. Theo’s love for art, particularly his studies of the painting, reflects how understanding the context, history, and deeper meanings of art can offer profound personal insights.
This can encourage educators to emphasize the role of art history in curriculum development, not just for its aesthetic value but for its ability to shape students’ understanding of the world.
Incorporating art history into educational programs fosters analytical thinking, creativity, and an appreciation for cultural heritage. It provides students with the tools to understand the world from multiple perspectives and to engage deeply with the societal issues that art often reflects.
6. Quotable Lines/Passages/Quotes
The Goldfinch is filled with poignant, thought-provoking lines that capture the novel’s deep emotional resonance and philosophical explorations. Here are some of the most impactful quotes from the book:
- “The absurd does not liberate; it binds.” — Albert Camus (Epigraph)
This epigraph, quoted at the beginning of the novel, sets the tone for the story’s exploration of existential themes. It suggests that in a world filled with chaos and meaninglessness, there is a sense of being trapped by the very absurdity of life—a concept that Theo grapples with throughout the novel. - “Things would have turned out better if she had lived.”
This line encapsulates the central tragedy of Theo’s life: the death of his mother. It reflects the unspoken belief that his life, and the lives of many others, could have been more stable and fulfilling had they not been marked by such an early loss. It speaks to the powerful influence of a parent’s love and presence on a child’s development. - “There’s a kind of magic in the world that happens in the silence, in the ‘in-between’ of things, in the gap where the thing we think we’re looking for is missing.”
This line reflects the novel’s exploration of the intangible and the ineffable aspects of life. It suggests that much of what makes life meaningful exists not in the obvious or material things, but in the moments of pause and contemplation, where the mind can process and interpret the world around it. - “To see the world as it really is, you have to stop thinking it’s anything more than what it is: a place of infinite and irrevocable change.”
This insight into Theo’s perception of the world captures his evolving understanding of life and loss. It speaks to the impermanence of existence, a theme that runs throughout the novel. Theo begins to realize that trying to hold onto the past, whether through material objects or memories, is ultimately futile because everything is in constant flux. - “Art isn’t supposed to be a solace; it’s supposed to be a kind of medicine.”
This quote speaks to the novel’s larger theme of art’s power, not just as a source of beauty or emotional comfort, but as a tool for confronting deeper emotional pain. Art, for Theo, is a means of processing trauma and exploring the complexities of human existence. - “I thought about the fact that the painting was now mine, that in a sense I had come to possess it, that it was mine in a way that no one could take from me, and I wondered why that had become so important.”
This moment of self-reflection from Theo highlights his obsession with The Goldfinch as not just a symbol of his grief, but also as a means of control. The idea of ownership and possession of the painting becomes a way for Theo to exert some measure of agency in a world that has stripped him of much of his sense of stability. - “A thing is not necessarily true because a man dies for it.”
This line encapsulates the novel’s exploration of moral and philosophical questions. It challenges the idea that sacrifice is always a reflection of truth or righteousness. Theo grapples with the notion of truth and meaning throughout the novel, and this quote speaks to the ambiguity of his experiences. - “The world was a place of infinite and irrevocable change, and in that change, something deep within me had hardened and died.”
This quote captures the central emotional conflict within Theo. He is unable to escape the psychological and emotional damage caused by the bombing and his mother’s death. The inevitable changes in the world around him mirror his inner turmoil, where his capacity for innocence and hope has been eroded over time. - “I had learned that sometimes things don’t turn out how you expect them to, and yet they’re still perfect in their own way.”
In this line, Theo reflects on the unpredictability of life. This realization comes after he has endured great personal tragedy, and it represents a moment of personal growth. It speaks to the idea that perfection is not about avoiding hardship or loss, but about finding meaning and acceptance in the face of life’s imperfections. - “It’s not enough to be here; you’ve got to live. You have to want to live.”
This line represents a moment of clarity for Theo, where he recognizes the necessity of living fully in the present, despite the weight of his past. It speaks to the theme of survival—surviving not just physically, but emotionally and psychologically. It’s a pivotal moment in the novel when Theo begins to acknowledge the importance of embracing life, despite the scars he carries.
7. Conclusion
The Goldfinch is an intricate, emotionally powerful novel that examines the transformative effects of trauma, the enduring power of art, and the search for meaning in a fractured world.
Through Theo Decker’s journey, Donna Tartt explores complex themes of loss, guilt, and redemption, using the stolen painting as a powerful symbol of the protagonist’s struggle to find a sense of purpose and belonging. While the novel’s pacing may be slow at times, its deep philosophical insights and richly developed characters make it a compelling read for those who enjoy literary fiction with emotional depth and intellectual complexity.
Recommendation: This novel is recommended for readers who appreciate intricate, character-driven stories that delve into the human psyche.
Fans of literary fiction, those interested in the power of art, or anyone who has experienced loss will find Theo’s journey both relatable and thought-provoking. The Goldfinch is a work that asks readers to consider the value of art, the consequences of trauma, and the complexities of human relationships.
Ultimately, The Goldfinch is a testament to the enduring power of literature to capture the human condition. It asks profound questions about art, life, and memory, and challenges us to confront the darkness in our own lives while still striving to find beauty and meaning.
