Well crafted story that tells the life of a university professor. On the surface it is a story that could be considered depressing—marked by a sad, slow undercurrent—as the difficulties of the professor’s seemingly unhappy life appear to outnumber the satisfying moments. A deeper review suggests maybe his life was more rewarding than at first glance. I am reminded of the “how are you complicit in the circumstances you find yourself in” quote. While the professor doesn’t seem to be blessed with good luck, one can argue that his circumstances are certainly a result of the choices he made. I’d say the book was structured in a sequence with these major parts: a) growing apart from your parents  b) dealing with a psychotic wife, c) giving into an affair, and d) decisions that limit a career. Life isn’t all roses and it certainly takes unexpected twists and turns, however in this story I keep coming back to “leading the life you were supposed to lead” and getting in your own way, yet realizing it over time and being content with it all. The story progresses smoothly despite a lack of action. Writing this review gives me more appreciation for the novel’s layers that seem to deepen upon reflection.