61 pages • 2 hours read
Ann PatchettA modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
The phrase “precious days,” which appears in the collection's title, is an important, recurring motif. It first partially appears in the Introduction: Patchett describes how, as she began to write during the pandemic, she came back to the same themes that revolve around the important things in this “precarious and precious life” (5). The phrase serves as an umbrella term, hinting at the ideas and themes Patchett explores in the collection.
In the title essay, Patchett uses the phrase “precious days” when she feels appreciative of the time she is able to spend with Sooki. Thinking about how so many of Sooki’s loved ones would have been thrilled to have such time with her, a grateful Patchett hums “these precious days” to herself. This is a poignant moment because of the accompanying reflection. Sooki’s illness, which she is battling within the isolation of the pandemic, brings into focus the preciousness of her time in all its meaning: These days are all the more valuable, irreplaceable, and to be cherished deeply.
Patchett also uses this phrase in the Epilogue, which again features Sooki. Patchett rejoices in the additional “precious days” she unexpectedly receives with Sooki, once again a reminder of how limited they are.
By Ann Patchett
Bel Canto
Ann Patchett
Commonwealth
Ann Patchett
Run
Ann Patchett
State of Wonder
Ann Patchett
The Dutch House
Ann Patchett
The Magician's Assistant
Ann Patchett
The Patron Saint of Liars
Ann Patchett
Tom Lake
Ann Patchett
Truth and Beauty
Ann Patchett
Books & Literature
View Collection
Community
View Collection
Essays & Speeches
View Collection
Family
View Collection
Friendship
View Collection
Inspiring Biographies
View Collection
Mortality & Death
View Collection
New York Times Best Sellers
View Collection
Popular Book Club Picks
View Collection
The Best of "Best Book" Lists
View Collection
Valentine's Day Reads: The Theme of Love
View Collection