Why Every Woman Should Read 'Arrangements in Blue' by Amy Key.
In a world often shaped by romantic ideals, it's not uncommon for women to grow up envisioning a life filled with love, desire, and the conventional markers of success that come from sharing it with another. However, this narrative doesn't hold true for everyone. Amy Key, an accomplished poet, takes us on a profound exploration of life's realities in the absence of romantic love in her book 'Arrangements in Blue.' For any woman seeking to connect with her femininity and womanhood, this book is a must-read.
Amy Key's journey is one of self-discovery, resilience, and truly realising the beauty of a life lived wholly for oneself. Drawing inspiration from Joni Mitchell's iconic album 'Blue,' which profoundly influenced her perception of love, Key gracefully honours a life dedicated to self. Through her words, she invites us to contemplate the significance of building a home, traveling alone, choosing motherhood, recognising personal milestones, navigating the boundaries of self-care, and uncovering the vast potential of self-friendship.
'Arrangements in Blue' really delves into the emotions we often hesitate to discuss openly: loneliness, envy, grief, and the weight of perceived failure. Amy Key approaches these feelings with a candidness and intimacy that is incredibly refreshing. She last had a boyfriend at the age of 22 and is now 44. While there have been fleeting encounters, unreciprocated passions, and even a distressing affair with someone else's husband, none of these connections have endured. She walks a solitary path, one filled with introspection and exploration.
As previously mentioned, the narrative of 'Arrangements in Blue' is underscored by the music of Joni Mitchell, whose album 'Blue' aligns seamlessly with the chapters of Key's life. Each song from the album resonates harmonically with Key's prose, creating a beautiful synergy between music and words. In her writing, Key pays homage to Mitchell's influence, drawing parallels between the album's lyrics and her own experiences. Her words are imbued with Mitchell's imagery, creating a rich tapestry of emotions.
As the book unfolds, it becomes evident that Amy Key's introspective journey is also about recognising what she may have overlooked. She astutely points out that while society has become more accepting of diverse romantic and sexual identities, it still places romantic love above all other forms of human connection. Traditional milestones, such as marriage and parenthood, are deeply intertwined with this concept. Key's writing shines a light on the societal stigma, feelings of failure, and grief experienced by those who embrace singleness. She offers catharsis through her language, but she also celebrates the discoveries made along the way. Some of her most poignant passages describe her encounters with the sea, capturing its essence with vivid imagery. Swimming becomes an intimate act, with seawater serving as a surrogate lover that bears her weight and reconnects her with herself. She also delves into her profound platonic loves, notably her poetry teacher Roddy Lumsden, whose recent passing still leaves her grieving.
Amy Key's courageous and honest meditation on her life's journey is an invitation to everyone, everywhere. It encourages us to embrace the full spectrum of human connection, from romantic love to the many forms of self-love and friendship that often go unnoticed. Her words inspire us to live and love authentically, reminding us that our unique journeys, whether partnered or solitary, are worth celebrating. 'Arrangements in Blue' is a testament to the power of self-discovery and self-acceptance, making it a compelling read for everyone on the path to understanding her own femininity and womanhood.
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