NONFICTION

A Solemn Pleasure: To Imagine, Witness, and Write

by Melissa Pritchard
Bellevue Literary. May 2015. 208p. ISBN 9781934137963. pap. $16.95; ebk. ISBN 9781934137970. LIT
COPY ISBN
OrangeReviewStarIn this collection of essays, Pritchard (English, Arizona State Univ.; Spirit Seizures) meditates on subjects as varied as the artist's role, the importance of voice in writing, the particular magic of dachshunds, mourning, loss, modern-day slavery, and bearing witness through it all. Packed with musings and observations, each essay is as insightful as it is engaging. Highly readable, Pritchard's writing is poignant and thought provoking, never condescending. Her thoughts on loss and mourning are relatable, while her ode to the Frisbee-loving S will touch a chord among pet parents far and wide. This is the kind of book that brushes on the personal and political, life's highs and lows. Each piece can be read as a stand-alone or as part of Pritchard's larger narrative on bearing witness.
VERDICT Pritchard will make you cry, think, and laugh; each essay is filled with wit and wisdom from writers old and new, informing Pritchard's own careful observations. A great read for writers, readers looking for enlightenment, and those who savor nonfiction that explores the spiritual through the everyday.
Reviewed by Gricel Dominguez, Florida International Univ. Lib. , Apr 15, 2015
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

NONFICTION

The Discovery of Ottoman Greece: Knowledge, Encounter, and Belief in the Mediterranean World of Martin Crusius
by Calis, Richard
NONFICTION

The African Revolution: A History of the Long Nineteenth Century
by Reid, Richard
NONFICTION

99% Perspiration: A New Working History of the American Way of Life
by Chandler, Adam
NONFICTION

Let’s Change the World: How To Work Within International Development Organizations To Make a Difference
by Vegas, Emiliana
NONFICTION

The 4 Jobs Club; How Smart Women Care for It All: Kids, Aging Parents, Home and Career
by Sollmann, Kathryn
NONFICTION

Industrial Policy for the United States: Winning the Competition for Good Jobs and High-Value Industries
by Fasteau, Marc & Ian Fletcher
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?