When the Mountains Called: A Journey Through Grief and Hope
As I turned the pages of When the Mountains Called by William DeWitt, I was instantly drawn in by the profound yet simple premise. A man, estranged from the world because of his grief, takes a long overdue journey to both confront and embrace the memory of his late wife, Pearl. This connection tugged at my heartstrings, as I’ve often pondered how we navigate loss, and DeWitt’s narrative felt like a warm invitation to reflect on my own experiences.
The story follows Andrew, a long-time recluse living in the serene yet isolating foothills of his ranch cabin. Following the passing of his wife, he grapples with a grief that has kept him wrapped in layers of numbness for twenty-five years. This sense of isolation is beautifully depicted through DeWitt’s vivid prose; it’s almost as if the mountains themselves echo Andrew’s dormant heart. As he embarks on his journey to confront this heaviness, we witness him traverse not just the great outdoors, but also the intricacies of his own soul.
The themes of loss and hope buffer the narrative, intertwining seamlessly as Andrew’s journey unfolds. Faced with fire-watching Elders and a timeless traveling companion, he is urged to reconsider what it means to truly live. The metaphor of the mountains — towering, unyielding, yet majestic — presents a lens through which we can better understand our struggles. One moment that resonated deeply with me was a dialogue about embracing hope in the face of despair, echoing the gentle nudge to "Come and see." This phrase strikes at the heart of the book, inviting readers to confront their own mountains.
DeWitt’s writing style is both poignant and accessible, striking a fine balance between lyricism and clarity. The pacing feels deliberate; each chapter unfolds like a gentle stroll through the landscape Andrew finds himself navigating. This is not just a story about grief — it’s also about awakening and realizing that life persists, even in the shadow of loss. The moments where Andrew interacts with the Elders are particularly memorable, filled with wisdom and insight that linger long after reading.
One quote that stood out was, "Grief, like a wildfire, can consume, but it also can forge new beginnings." This sentiment encapsulates the book’s essence, serving as a reminder that from our darkest experiences, new paths can emerge.
As I closed the book, I found myself reflecting on the complexities of grief and the importance of community. When the Mountains Called is a thoughtful exploration that I believe will resonate with anyone who has experienced loss or is searching for hope in their own journey. It’s a lovely read for those grappling with grief, seekers of spiritual reflection, or anyone who appreciates a well-crafted narrative steeped in emotional depth.
In a world often overshadowed by isolation, DeWitt’s work encourages us to seek connection — with ourselves, others, and the world around us. I left the book not merely with a sense of closure but with an invigorating sense of hope, expecting that its gentle pull will linger long after the final page. If you’re looking for a book that combines introspection with a call to embrace life, I wholeheartedly recommend diving into When the Mountains Called. It’s a journey worth taking.