Tinkers Book Summary

by Paul Harding68

TL;DR

Tinkers by Paul Harding is an elegiac meditation on love, loss, and the identity that connects generations, centered around the memories of George Washington Crosby on his deathbed.

What is Tinkers about

Tinkers, written by Paul Harding, explores the themes of memory, consciousness, and the enduring connections between generations. The narrative centers on George Washington Crosby, who, on his deathbed, recollects his childhood and his father, Howard, who abandoned him at the age of twelve. The book delves into the profound and often painful legacy left by family members and the ways in which the past shapes our present identities. Harding's lyrical prose provides a poignant meditation on the beauty of nature and the complexities of familial love and loss.

Tinkers 5 Key Takeaways

Theme of Legacy

Tinkers beautifully examines the legacy of consciousness and identity passed down through generations, highlighting the deep connections and impacts family members have on each other’s lives.

Meditation on Nature

The book eloquently describes the fierce beauty of nature, enriching its narrative with vivid and poetic imagery that underscores the emotional undertones of the story.

Non-linear Narrative

Harding employs a non-linear narrative structure, weaving in and out of different time periods and memories to create a rich tapestry of George Crosby's life and his reflections on his father.

Elegiac Tone

The book maintains an elegiac tone throughout, offering a contemplative and mournful reflection on life, death, and the passage of time.

Character Study

Tinkers provides an in-depth character study of George Washington Crosby and his father Howard, exploring their inner lives and the complex dynamics of their relationship.

Tinkers Videos

How On Earth Did Tinkers Win Paul Harding a Pulitzer ... - YouTube

Top Tinkers Quotes

  • 'George Washington Crosby began to hallucinate eight days before he died.'
  • 'Light had no age, no time, no future, no past, and so it had no duration.'

Who should read Tinkers?

Tinkers is ideal for readers who appreciate literary fiction that delves into profound themes such as memory, family, and the passage of time. Those who enjoy poetic prose and contemplative narratives will find this book particularly rewarding.

About the Author

Paul Harding is an American author known for his lyrical and richly detailed prose. He won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2010 for Tinkers, his debut novel. Harding grew up in Massachusetts and has taught writing at Harvard University and the University of Iowa. His work often explores themes of memory, family, and the natural world.

Tinkers Best Reviews

  • 'Tinkers is a truly remarkable novel, finely crafted and deeply moving, a meditation on the passage of time and the intricacies of familial love.' - The New York Times
  • 'Paul Harding's prose is nothing short of mesmerizing. Tinkers is a beautiful and haunting story that lingers long after the final page.' - The Washington Post

Tinkers FAQs

What is the theme of the book Tinkers?

Tinkers is about the legacy of consciousness and the porousness of identity from one generation to the next. It's an elegiac meditation on love, loss, and the fierce beauty of nature.

Is Tinkers worth reading?

Yes, Tinkers is worth any reader's time. It's an astringent meditation on loss, family ties, and the presence of the past.

How many pages are in the book Tinkers?

The first edition hardcover of Tinkers has 191 pages.