Books: Calypso

Calypso is a collection of essays by David Sedaris. These essays are excerpts from David's life. When one does not have an abundant supply of time, then a collection of stories and essays is the best option. It is quicker to find a logical finish to put the book down before another task consumes one's time. Besides, the stand-alone nature of essays frees up the mind from the eagerness to return to the book. Though David's book satisfies the above two points, it also fails to leave an everlasting impression.

Each chapter in this book is devoted to different incidents from David's life. There is no link between the various chapters. David's partner and his extended family appear in these chapters based on the subject. Using these chapters, David highlights the interruptions and drivers in our life. He also covers happiness and loss. David, the author,  describes how a visit by a family member or friend changes our life for a brief period. He also explores our obsessions with wearable tech. When one thinks that David is exploring lightweight topics, then he springs a surprise by talking about a sibling's suicide. A loss, especially in the form of death, leaves an unrecognizable scar. One of the chapters is named Calypso, same as the title of the novel. In this chapter, he talks about a tumor.

We have a mixed bag experience while reading through this book. When we talk about everyday life, David offers a viewpoint. However, this viewpoint is something any educated reader can arrive independently. On the other hand, David has our complete attention when he talks about loss. In these chapters, his restraint to underplay the sorrow makes us empathize with him more. However, when he goes back to explaining the quirkiness of his family, we become detached. The detachment is primarily due to the self-deprecating humor employed in these chapters.

One can safely proceed to the next book when confronted by this book in either a web page or a bookstore.