In 1967, Joan Didion wrote an essay called Goodbye to All That , a work of such candid and penetrating prose that it soon became the gold standard for personal essays. Like no other story before it, Didion’s tale of loving and leaving New York captured the mesmerizing allure Manhattan has always had for writers, poets, and wandering spirits.
In this captivating collection, 28 writers take up Didion’s literary legacy by sharing their own New York stories. Their essays often begin as love stories do, with the passion of something newly discovered—the crush of subway crowds, the streets filled with manic energy, and the certainty that this is the only place on Earth where one can become exactly who she is meant to be.
They also share the grief that comes when the metropolis loses its magic and the pressures of New York’s frenetic life wear thin on even the most fervent dwellers. As friends move away, rents soar, and love—still— remains just out of reach, each writer’s goodbye to New York is singular and universal, like New York itself.
With Cheryl Strayed, Dani Shapiro, Emma Straub, Ann Hood, and more.
Editorial Review
Sari Botton and Elisa Albert and Karen E. Bender and Chloé Caldwell and Ruth Curry and Meghan Daum and Marcy Dermansky and Valerie Eagle and Hope Edelman and Lauren Elkin and Maggie Estep and Melissa Febos and Roxane Gay and Emily Gould and Ann Hood and Dana Kinstler and Marie Myung-Ok Lee and Emily St. John Mandel and Liza Monroy and Mira Ptacin and Emily Carter Roiphe and Rayhane Sanders and Dani Shapiro and Janet Steen and Emma Straub and Cheryl Strayed and Eva Tenuto and Rebecca Wolff delivers an engaging reading experience with Goodbye to All That: Writers on Loving and Leaving New York, a book that has resonated deeply with its audience. With a very good rating of 3.74 out of 5 from 3,532 readers, this book has proven its appeal to a broad audience.
The book explores rich themes that keep readers engaged from start to finish. In 1967, Joan Didion wrote an essay called Goodbye to All That , a work of such candid and penetrating prose that it soon became the gold standard for personal essays. Like no other story before it, Didion’s tale of loving and leaving New York captured the mesmerizing allure Manhattan has always had for writers, poets, and wandering spirits.In this captivating collection, 28 writers take up Didion’s literary legacy by sharing their own New York stories. Their essays often begin as love stories do, with the passion of something newly discovered—the crush of subway crowds, the streets filled with manic energy, and the certainty that this is the only place on Earth where one can become exactly who she is meant to be.They also share the grief that comes when the metropolis loses its magic and the pressures of New York’s frenetic life wear thin on even the most fervent dwellers.
— Reviewed by Editorial App Deal Library ·
Why Read This Book?
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Well-Received by Readers — With a solid 3.74/5 rating from 3,532 readers, Goodbye to All That: Writers on Loving and Leaving New York has earned its place as a worthwhile read.
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Proven Writer — Sari Botton and Elisa Albert and Karen E. Bender and Chloé Caldwell and Ruth Curry and Meghan Daum and Marcy Dermansky and Valerie Eagle and Hope Edelman and Lauren Elkin and Maggie Estep and Melissa Febos and Roxane Gay and Emily Gould and Ann Hood and Dana Kinstler and Marie Myung-Ok Lee and Emily St. John Mandel and Liza Monroy and Mira Ptacin and Emily Carter Roiphe and Rayhane Sanders and Dani Shapiro and Janet Steen and Emma Straub and Cheryl Strayed and Eva Tenuto and Rebecca Wolff brings a recognized level of craft and expertise to Goodbye to All That: Writers on Loving and Leaving New York, ensuring readers receive a polished and rewarding experience.
Reading Recommendations
Readers who found Goodbye to All That: Writers on Loving and Leaving New York compelling often discover similar enjoyment in "Here Is New York", "Goodbye To All That" and "Famesick". These recommendations are based on shared themes, writing style, and reader preferences.
Quick Summary
Goodbye to All That: Writers on Loving and Leaving New York is a poignant anthology featuring essays from 28 diverse authors who reflect on their complex relationships with New York City. Inspired by Joan Didion's iconic essay, these narratives explore the initial enchantment of the city and the inevitable disillusionment that follows. Each writer shares their unique experiences, capturing the vibrant essence of Manhattan while addressing themes of love, loss, and identity.
Key Takeaways
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Explore the emotional journey of falling in love with New York City.
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Understand the complexities of leaving a beloved place.
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Gain insight into the personal stories of various writers and their connections to the city.
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Reflect on the universal themes of longing and nostalgia.
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Discover the transformative power of place in shaping identity.
Who Should Read This Book
This collection is ideal for readers who appreciate personal essays and literary reflections on urban life. It will resonate with those who have experienced the allure and challenges of living in a bustling metropolis. Writers, aspiring authors, and anyone with a fondness for New York City will find value in these heartfelt narratives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What inspired this collection?
The collection is inspired by Joan Didion's seminal essay, which discusses the allure and eventual disillusionment with New York City, serving as a foundation for the contributing writers' reflections.
Is this book suitable for those who have never lived in New York?
Yes, the essays offer universal themes of love and loss that can resonate with anyone, regardless of their personal experiences with the city.
Are all contributors well-known authors?
The anthology features a mix of established and emerging voices, providing a diverse range of perspectives on the New York experience.
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