A Terrible Boon

By John Swofford

In A Terrible Boon, author John Swofford chronicles the eccentric life of Patty, a woman grappling with her identity after reaching her thirties and feeling alone in a world that seems to overlook her. The narrative weaves through her interactions with her boyfriend Ray, her dysfunctional family dynamics, and the pressures of an enigmatic milieu filled with commentary on societal issues.
Patty feels out of place and struggles with her mental health, frequently expressing feelings of depression and inadequacy. This is symbolized by her low self-esteem regarding her relationships and her societal role. Much of the dialogue reveals layers of confusion and frustration, as characters engage in witty exchanges that mask deeper issues of identity, loyalty, and love.
For instance, she and Ray discuss everything from mundane meal prep to their complex pasts and ongoing challenges. Their conversations encapsulate themes of modern anxiety and the struggle for connection in a chaotic world. Throughout, Patty's efforts to manage familial expectations and personal relationships depict a woman who is caught in the crosshairs of modern pressures and expectations.
Much of the story reads like a social commentary, presenting Patty's internal struggles against the backdrop of a broader societal critique, blending humor with a poignant reflection on personal inadequacies and the quest for fulfillment. Ultimately, Swofford's work captures the intricacies of navigating adulthood and the complicated dance between self-awareness and societal perception.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 172322622X
• ISBN13: 9781723226229
• Release Date: July 2018
• Publisher: Createspace Independent Publishing Platform
• Length: 386 Pages
• Weight: 0.97 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 5.3" x 8.0"