Age and Time

The novel’s major driving force is the process of time. Addie, Louis, Ruth, Gene, and even Jamie must confront the varying difficulties and adjustments necessary to age well. Addie must consider, especially after she breaks her hip, the realities of her situation and the idea that her body cannot support her the way it once did. In coming to this realization, she decides to break off her relationship with Louis and live in a retirement home. By living in a home, she provides for her immediate physical demands, but she begins to feel that she needs Louis in her life. Consequently, her emotional life suffers because of the choices she made in order to accommodate her aging body.

Addie’s physical problems are a result of age, just as some of Louis’ issues are the result of his advancing age. During the couple...