Levels of Life

Summary

Julian Barnes' book «Levels of Life» consists of three parts, all unified by the theme of loss and grief. The first part, «The Sin of Height», delves into the beginnings of ballooning and the first flights, symbolizing humanity's yearning for height and freedom. The second part, «On the Level», explores the romantic relationship between photographer Nadar and actress Sarah Bernhardt, highlighting how love can both elevate and destroy. The third part, «The Loss of Depth», is a personal essay by Barnes about the death of his wife Pat Kavanagh and his experiences with loss. The author examines how grief can alter one's perception of life and compel a search for new meanings. The book blends historical facts with personal reflections, creating a profound and moving narrative about love, loss, and human resilience.