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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
An Absent Mind summary
Eric Rill
Brief summary
An Absent Mind by Eric Rill is a poignant novel that delves into the impact of Alzheimer's disease on a family. It offers a raw and honest portrayal of the challenges and emotional turmoil experienced by both the patient and their loved ones.
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An Absent Mind
Summary of key ideas
The Unraveling of a Mind
In An Absent Mind by Eric Rill, we are introduced to Saul, a 71-year-old retired dentist who is beginning to show signs of Alzheimer's. The story is told from four perspectives: Saul, his wife Monique, his daughter Florence, and his son Joey. As Saul struggles to cope with his declining mental faculties, his family is also forced to come to terms with the reality of the situation.
At the beginning of the novel, Saul is still living at home, but his lapses in memory are becoming increasingly frequent and severe. Monique, his wife, is struggling to take care of him, and she is constantly worried about his safety. Their daughter, Florence, is supportive but distant, while their son, Joey, is self-absorbed and indifferent to his father's condition.
The Family Dynamics
As Saul's condition worsens, he is moved to a care facility. Monique feels a mix of relief and guilt about this decision, while Florence is consumed by her own marital problems. Joey, who lives far away, only visits his father on rare occasions. Saul's own perspective is a mix of confusion and frustration as he struggles to remember his family members and the events of his life.
The story also delves into the family's past, revealing the complex dynamics and resentments that have built up over the years. Saul's overbearing nature and his controlling behavior have left a lasting impact on his children, and they find themselves grappling with conflicting emotions as they watch their father's mental decline.
Emotional Turmoil
As the story unfolds, Saul's condition continues to deteriorate. He becomes increasingly disoriented and forgetful, often mistaking Monique for his deceased first wife. Monique, in turn, is filled with a mix of sorrow and frustration as she watches the man she loves slip away. Florence struggles with her own feelings of guilt and resentment, while Joey remains largely detached from the situation.
Despite their strained relationships, the family members are brought together by Saul's illness. They confront their unresolved issues and begin to find a fragile sense of unity in the face of their shared sorrow. They also learn to communicate with Saul in new ways, finding moments of connection amidst the confusion and disorientation.
The Final Goodbye
In the final stages of his illness, Saul becomes increasingly detached from reality. He experiences moments of lucidity, but they are fleeting. As his family gathers around him, they are forced to confront the inevitability of his passing. In a poignant scene, Saul mistakes Monique for his first wife one last time, but in a moment of clarity, he tells her he loves her.
Saul's death marks the end of an era for his family. They are left to grapple with their grief and the unresolved issues that his illness brought to the surface. However, they also find a sense of closure and acceptance, as they come to terms with the complexities of their relationships with Saul.
A Heartrending Journey
An Absent Mind is a heartrending exploration of the impact of Alzheimer's on both the individual and their family. Through Saul's journey, we see the devastating effects of the disease on his sense of self and his relationships. We also witness the resilience and strength of his family as they navigate the challenges of caregiving and the emotional toll of his illness.
Ultimately, the novel is a moving meditation on memory, identity, and the enduring power of love. It reminds us of the fragility of the mind and the importance of treasuring our connections with others, even in the face of profound loss.
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What is An Absent Mind about?
An Absent Mind is a poignant novel by Eric Rill that delves into the complexities of family, memory, and love. The story revolves around a man named Saul, who is diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. As his memory starts to fade, the novel takes us on a journey through his past and present, exploring the impact of his condition on his relationships with his family. It is a beautifully written and thought-provoking book that offers a unique perspective on the challenges of memory loss.
An Absent Mind Review
An Absent Mind (2014) highlights the journey of a family coping with Alzheimer's disease and the impact it has on their lives. Here's why you should pick up this book:
- Exploring the emotional complexities of memory loss, it offers a poignant portrayal of love, loss, and resilience in the face of adversity.
- The book delves into the unpredictable nature of the human mind and the challenges families face when a loved one's memories start to fade.
- With its authentic and heartfelt storytelling, the book grips readers by showcasing the power of family bonds in the midst of a difficult journey.
Who should read An Absent Mind?
Anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of Alzheimer's disease and its impact on individuals and families
People who enjoy emotionally powerful and thought-provoking stories
Readers who appreciate well-developed characters and realistic portrayals of human relationships
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An Absent Mind FAQs
What is the main message of An Absent Mind?
The main message of An Absent Mind revolves around the impact of memory loss on family dynamics.
How long does it take to read An Absent Mind?
Reading An Absent Mind takes a few hours, while the Blinkist summary can be finished in under 15 minutes.
Is An Absent Mind a good book? Is it worth reading?
An Absent Mind is a poignant read, highlighting the complexities of memory and relationships in a compelling manner.
Who is the author of An Absent Mind?
The author of An Absent Mind is Eric Rill.
What to read after An Absent Mind?
If you're wondering what to read next after An Absent Mind, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Eat to Live by Joel Fuhrman
- Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Weston A. Price
- Salt Sugar Fat by Michael Moss
- Mindless Eating by Brian Wansink
- The Twenty-four Hour Mind by Rosalind D. Cartwright