They May Not Mean To, But They Do Summary
Schine, Cathleen

They May Not Mean To, But They Do Overview

They May Not Mean To, But They Do is a novel by Cathleen Schine. The story is a morbidly funny portrayal of the struggle of different generations trying connect with and care for each other. The novel follows the Bergman family’s attempt to deal with the decline and death of their husband and father, Aaron. Aaron’s wife, Joy, feels as if there is nowhere she belongs as her children go to unneeded lengths to help her adjust to the ordeal. Themes in the novel include dealing with loss and grief, the continuity between the generations, and the need for interpersonal connection