What Remains summary

Life of Glamour and Tragedy

In What Remains by Carole Radziwill, the author takes us on a journey through her fascinating life, beginning with her early years in a small town in upstate New York. We learn about her move to New York City, where she pursued a career in journalism and eventually found herself working for ABC News. It was during this time that she met her future husband, Anthony Radziwill, a member of the Polish royal family.

The couple's life was filled with glamour and privilege, but it was also marked by tragedy. Radziwill paints a vivid picture of their life together, from their travels around the world to their close friendships with the Kennedys. However, the shadow of Anthony's cancer diagnosis looms over their happiness, casting a pall over their fairy-tale existence.

Unwavering Love and Loss

Radziwill's depiction of her husband's battle with cancer is heart-wrenching. She describes the harrowing experience with raw honesty, painting a picture of unwavering love and unimaginable loss. Despite the odds, the couple's bond grows stronger, and they find solace in each other's company, even in the face of impending tragedy.

Anthony's eventual passing is a crushing blow to Radziwill, and she describes her grief in a way that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. She takes us through the stages of her mourning, from the initial shock and disbelief to the slow process of coming to terms with her new reality. Her candid portrayal of grief is a poignant reminder of the human capacity for endurance.

Life After Loss

After her husband's death, Radziwill is faced with the daunting task of rebuilding her life. She leaves her job at ABC News and embarks on a journey of self-discovery, determined to carve out a new identity for herself. She moves to a new apartment, explores new hobbies, and even takes up boxing as a form of therapy.

Radziwill's resilience in the face of such profound loss is truly inspiring. She finds strength in her friendships, particularly with her fellow widow, Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, whose untimely death in a plane crash further deepens Radziwill's sense of loss. Despite these tragedies, Radziwill remains determined to embrace life with all its complexities.

Discovering What Remains

In the latter part of the book, Radziwill reflects on the lessons she has learned from her experiences. She comes to the realization that, despite the pain and suffering, life is still worth living. She finds comfort in the memories of her husband and friend, acknowledging that while they may be gone, their impact on her life remains.

Radziwill's journey, as detailed in What Remains, is a powerful testament to the human spirit's capacity for resilience. It's a story of love, loss, and ultimately, survival. Through her personal narrative, Radziwill encourages us to confront our own grief and embrace the beauty of what remains.