Shakespeare's Kitchen: Stories

This book is astoundingly well written, but the Introduction is possibly the best of all. Segal's theme being, how do people meet others? Become assimilated into an established community? I particularly loved her illustration of people attaining intimacy, and what happens to that intimacy over time, whether it remains strong or not. There is a kicker at the end that had me going back and re-reading the final pages referenced in other reviews, to see how I had missed a crucial point. And saw it was hidden there all the time. The humor also is especially keen.

This is the best book I have read this summer. It is a perfect mix of good writing, wit, and captivating plot. Segal had me laughing out loud quite a few times but also had me contemplating her words long after I finished a chapter. Don't let the "short story" part scare you off. All are interrelated and reads like a complete novel. Highly reccomended.

Shakespeare's Kitchen is an anthology of thirteen interconnected short stories, seven of which have previously appeared in "The New Yorker", about the yearning for friendship and the development - and loss - of closeness. Author and award-winner Lore Segal reveals the world of Ilka Weisz, who has accepted a junior position at a Connecticut think tank at the cost of departing her beloved circle of New York friends. As she comes to know her new acquaintances through a series of memorable dinner parties, afternoon picnics, and Sunday brunches, she experiences the outsider's loneliness among people as well the delight of cultivating familiar companionship, the wonderment of love, and the shock or even bizarre behavior in the wake of losing a fellow human being to death. An emotional saga of interpersonal relationships as a barometer of the human condition.

Wonderful interralted stories that teach us about the complexity of our relationships. Ms. Segal is able to touch the human aspects of moving in and out or relationships, the sometimes difficult road to friendship, how to deal with death and loss and the magic of falling and being in love. Ms. Segal is an outstanding writer who is able to take the sometimes mundane feelings of life and make them meaningful. Enjoyed this book and Ms. Segal's ability to make you feel as though you know each character intimately.

A wonderful collection of conversations among friends, lovers, co-workers and family about the dyanmics the life, love, loss and relationships. Although sprinkled with humor, Ms. Segal sucessfully gives the reader lessons on how we are each changed by the relationships we have and the people we love. An "adventure' into the loves, losses and daily routines of her characters. An enjoyable book. Highly recommended.