In 'Wedding Toasts I'll Never Give,' Ada Calhoun explores the complexities of love, relationships, and the societal expectations around them through a series of poignant essays. With raw honesty, she reflects on her own experiences and the stories of others, unraveling the myths of fairy-tale romances. Calhoun challenges readers to reconsider what it means to truly celebrate love amidst life's imperfections and challenges. This book is a heartfelt and insightful dive into the nuances of commitment, vulnerability, and self-discovery. Join her on a journey that promises not just laughter and tears, but also a profound sense of connection.
By Ada Calhoun
Published: 2018
"Love is not a fairy tale; it’s a series of messy moments that bring us closer together."
Seven essays celebrating the beauty of the imperfect marriage. We hear plenty about whether or not to get married, but much less about what it takes to stay married. Clichés around marriage—eternal bliss, domestic harmony, soul mates—leave out the real stuff. After marriage you may still want to sleep with other people. Sometimes your partner will bore the hell out of you. And when stuck paying for your spouse’s mistakes, you might miss being single. In Wedding Toasts I’ll Never Give, Ada Calhoun presents an unflinching but also loving portrait of her own marriage, opening a long-overdue conversation about the institution as it truly is: not the happy ending of a love story or a relic doomed by high divorce rates, but the beginning of a challenging new chapter of which “the first twenty years are the hardest.” Calhoun’s funny, poignant personal essays explore the bedrooms of modern coupledom for a nuanced discussion of infidelity, existential anxiety, and the many other obstacles to staying together. Both realistic and openhearted, Wedding Toasts I’ll Never Give offers a refreshing new way to think about marriage as a brave, tough, creative decision to stay with another person for the rest of your life. “What a burden,” Calhoun calls marriage, “and what a gift.”
Ada Calhoun is a celebrated author and essayist known for her incisive exploration of contemporary culture, identity, and the complexities of modern womanhood. Her notable works include 'Why We Can't Sleep: Women's New Midlife Crisis', which offers a compelling look into the struggles of Generation X women, and 'Also a Poet', a biography of the poet David Berman that intertwines personal narrative with literary analysis. Calhoun's writing style is marked by its sharp wit, honesty, and a keen observational ability, making her an essential voice in today's literary landscape.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Attached delves into the profound impact of attachment theories on our romantic relationships. It uncovers the fascinating ways our early bonds shape how we connect, love, and communicate with others. Through compelling anecdotes and insightful research, the authors reveal the three attachment styles: secure, anxious, and avoidant, and how they play out in everyday dynamics. As readers navigate the intricacies of their own emotional landscapes, they’ll discover tools to foster healthier connections and break free from destructive patterns. Prepare for a transformative journey that will forever change how you view love and attachment!
In 'Can Love Last?', Stephen A. Mitchell explores the evolving nature of romantic love through the lens of both psychology and personal narratives. He delves into the factors that challenge lasting relationships, unraveling the mysteries of passion, intimacy, and attachment. With poignant insights and compelling stories, Mitchell examines whether love can truly endure the test of time. The book invites readers to reflect on their own experiences with love and commitment, making it a thought-provoking journey into the heart of relationships. Will you find the answers to keeping love alive, or is it destined to fade?
In 'Women Who Love Too Much', Robin Norwood explores the deep emotional struggles of women who find themselves in unhealthy, obsessive relationships. Through compelling anecdotes and insightful analysis, she reveals the patterns that lead these women to prioritize love over self-worth. Norwood provides a roadmap for healing, encouraging readers to reclaim their identity and understand the roots of their behaviors. This book is not just a guide; it's a revelation for those caught in the cycle of loving too much. Are you ready to break free and rediscover the love you truly deserve?
In 'Been There, Married That,' author Gigi Levangie Grazer delivers a sharp and witty exploration of love and marriage through the eyes of a divorcee navigating the complexities of relationships. With humor and honesty, she recounts her misadventures in romance, unveiling the absurdities and surprises of modern dating. As she revisits her past, Grazer offers insight into the lessons learned from her marriages and the search for true happiness. This compelling narrative leaves readers questioning the true nature of love and commitment. Can you really find the happily ever after, or is it all just a matter of perspective?
In the intellectual landscape of 1980s America, 'The Marriage Plot' follows the complex lives of three graduates from Brown University. As they navigate love, friendship, and the intricacies of relationships, they confront profound questions about commitment and identity. The novel intertwines classic literary references with the trials of young adulthood, as the characters grapple with romance and mental health. Through the lens of a love triangle, Eugenides explores the blurred lines between passion and obsession. Will they find happiness, or will their ideals of love lead to inevitable heartbreak?
In 'Committed,' Elizabeth Gilbert explores the complexities of marriage through her own journey of love and commitment. After a whirlwind romance, she finds herself questioning the very institution of marriage. As she delves into historical and cultural perspectives, Gilbert uncovers the fears and expectations that intertwine with love. Her reflections are both humorous and profound, inviting readers to reassess their own beliefs about commitment. This deeply personal narrative leaves you wondering: can love truly thrive within the confines of marital vows?
In 'Modern Romance,' comedian Aziz Ansari teams up with sociologist Eric Klinenberg to explore the complexities of love in the digital age. Through humorous anecdotes and rigorous research, they unravel how technology has transformed dating and relationships. The book is both a poignant examination of romance amidst a landscape of social media and dating apps, and a celebration of love's enduring essence. Ansari's witty narrative makes complex sociological concepts accessible and entertaining. Ultimately, 'Modern Romance' invites readers to reflect on their own relationships and the evolving nature of connection.
In the languid summer of 1983, a passionate, life-altering romance unfolds between Elio, a sensitive Italian teenager, and Oliver, a confident American graduate student. Set against the backdrop of sun-drenched landscapes and intellectual exchange, their relationship blurs the lines of desire and identity. As they explore their feelings, time becomes a bittersweet shadow, amplifying the fleeting nature of youth and love. Aciman's evocative prose captures the intensity of first love and the complexities of intimacy. Will their connection withstand the tides of time and separation?
Showing 8 of 19 similar books
Naval Ravikant is an entrepreneur, angel investor, and philosopher, best known as the co-founder of AngelList, a platform that connects startups with investors. Ravikant is a prolific thinker and writer on topics such as startups, investing, and personal well-being, sharing his wisdom through essays, podcasts, and social media. He has invested in over 100 companies, including Uber, Twitter, and Yammer, making him one of Silicon Valley’s most successful angel investors. Ravikant is also known for his philosophical musings on wealth, happiness, and the meaning of life, which have garnered him a large and dedicated following.
Jack Edwards is a British YouTuber, content creator, and author known for his videos on literature, academia, and productivity. Edwards gained popularity through his educational content, which includes book recommendations, study tips, and insights into university life. He is an advocate for reading and lifelong learning, often encouraging his audience to explore literature and improve their academic skills. Edwards has also written a book, The Uni-Verse, which offers advice to students navigating university life. His work has made him a well-known figure in the educational and literary communities, particularly among young readers and students.
Ana Lorena Fabrega is an innovative educator and author passionate about reimagining education. Known as “Ms. Fab,” she is the Chief Evangelist at Synthesis, an education startup inspired by the problem-solving and collaboration model used at SpaceX. She advocates for alternative learning methods, encouraging curiosity and creativity in students. Ana's work emphasizes the importance of engaging young learners in real-world challenges and critical thinking. She also shares insights on education reform through her popular newsletter, Fab Fridays.
David Cancel is a prominent entrepreneur and author best known for his influential work in the tech and startup communities. As the CEO and co-founder of Drift, a leading conversational marketing platform, he has revolutionized how businesses engage with their customers online. Cancel has also authored insightful books such as "Hypergrowth," which offers valuable strategies for scaling startups rapidly. His contributions extend beyond literature as he frequently shares his expertise through speaking engagements and his popular podcast, "Seeking Wisdom." David Cancel's innovative ideas and practical advice continue to inspire and guide entrepreneurs worldwide.
Anya Taylor-Joy is an acclaimed actress known for her captivating performances in film and television. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Beth Harmon in the critically acclaimed Netflix series "The Queen's Gambit," which earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress. Taylor-Joy has also starred in notable films such as "The Witch," "Split," and "Emma," showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress. In addition to her acting career, she has been praised for her contributions to promoting diverse and complex female characters in modern storytelling. Her work continues to inspire audiences and set a high standard in the entertainment industry.
Ann Handley is a renowned digital marketing pioneer and a Wall Street Journal bestselling author. She is the author of "Everybody Writes," a seminal guide on creating compelling content, and co-author of "Content Rules," which outlines effective content marketing strategies. As the Chief Content Officer at MarketingProfs, she has significantly influenced modern marketing practices. Handley is also a highly sought-after keynote speaker, known for her insights on digital content and marketing trends. Her work has empowered countless marketers to elevate their content creation and strategy efforts.
Nat Eliason is an influential writer, entrepreneur, and educator known for his insightful work on personal growth, productivity, and digital marketing. He founded Growth Machine, a successful SEO and content marketing agency that has helped numerous companies expand their online presence. Eliason's thought-provoking articles on his blog cover a wide range of topics, from philosophy to health, attracting a large and engaged audience. Additionally, he authored "Effortless Output with Roam," a comprehensive guide on using the Roam Research tool for knowledge management. Through his diverse contributions, Eliason has established himself as a significant voice in the realms of self-improvement and digital strategy.
Natalie Portman is an Academy Award-winning actress, director, and activist known for her diverse roles in films such as Black Swan, V for Vendetta, and Jackie. Beyond her successful acting career, Portman is a passionate advocate for women’s rights, animal rights, and environmental causes. She has a degree from Harvard University, where she studied psychology, and is known for her intellect as well as her artistic talent. Natalie has also directed and produced films and is a vocal supporter of the Time’s Up and #MeToo movements, advocating for gender equality in the entertainment industry.
Showing 8 of 16 related collections
“Love is not a fairy tale; it’s a series of messy moments that bring us closer together.”
Wedding Toasts I'll Never Give
By Ada Calhoun
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.