In Love: A Memoir of Love and Loss

In Love is Bloom’s memoir. However, the text gives equal weight to Brian Ameche’s story. How is Brian’s storyline significant to Bloom’s storyline? In what ways does the couple’s evolving relationship dictate the memoir’s progression?

Describe Bloom and Brian’s relationship. How did they meet and how did their romance develop? What risks did they take and what sacrifices did they make to be together? In what ways does their connection help the couple transcend trials and tribulations? How does their early relationship impact the end of their relationship?

How does Bloom and Brian’s relationship change after Brian is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s? How does the illness impact Brian? What changes does Bloom notice in her husband’s behavior? How do Brian’s changes impact Bloom in turn? In what ways does the couple triumph over Brian’s illness? In what ways are they powerless in the face of Brian’s illness?

Why does Brian choose to pursue an assisted suicide? How does he articulate his wishes to his family and doctors throughout the memoir? Why does Bloom support her husband? In spite of her support, what challenges does Brian’s decision create for Bloom?

How does Bloom incorporate humor into her account? Cite specific examples. In what ways does this choice enact the complexities of Bloom’s lived experience?

Describe the structure and form of the memoir. How does the memoir represent the passage of time? How and why does the memoir incorporate flashbacks, and what is the effect? How might the narrative structure relate to Bloom and Brian’s experience of time?

Where does Bloom find strength as Brian’s condition worsens? What does the memoir suggest is the role of interpersonal support in the lives of caretakers?

After Brian’s diagnosis, Bloom starts to imagine her life without her husband. In what ways is her grief unique? How does Brian’s decision to pursue an accompanied suicide dictate her grieving process? How does she mourn Brian as she anticipates his death? Does her mourning change after Brian dies? If so, how?