Amie

“The choice for the educated woman was clear and stark. Marriage and no creative expression. Or convent and creative expression. So, women entered the convent in order to paint. Such was the sacrifice. But when have women not sacrificed to live as they feel? Not all of us will embrace men, marriage, motherhood.”
― Sarah Winman, Still Life

“I said you could never disappoint me, Alys. I'm proud of every inch of you. Every miniscule part of your being. Of your thoughts and your joy and your rage. The way you sing and navigate your way in this often godforsaken—
I love a girl.
(Pause.)
Lucky girl, I say—world.
They looked at one another and the distance halved. Ulysses said, A new year, Alys. I hope it's worthy of you.”
― Sarah Winman, Still Life

“So, time heals. Mostly. Sometimes carelessly. And in unsuspecting moments, the pain catches and reminds one of all that's been missing. The fulcrum of what might have been. But then it passes. Winter moves into spring and swallows return. The proximity of new skin returns to the sheets. Beauty does what is required. Jobs fulfil and conversations inspire. Loneliness becomes a mere Sunday. Scattered clothes. Empty bowls. Rotting fruit. Passing time. But still life in all its beauty and complexity.”
― Sarah Winman, Still Life

“By the rift—Lucifer? Again?" fumed Sarmodel. "Sebastian, I give up! Are we never to get any of the credit for anything?”
― Cameron Sullivan, The Red Winter