"Bridge of Sighs" is a novel written by American author Richard Russo. Published in 2007, it tells the story of Lou C. "Lucy" Lynch, who grows up in the fictional town of Thomaston, New York. The novel explores themes of class, identity, and the passage of time as Lucy reflects on his childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. The title "Bridge of Sighs" refers to a bridge in Venice, Italy, where prisoners would cross on their way to the prison cells. The name suggests a sense of melancholy and resignation, which reflects the tone of the novel as Lucy grapples with the complexities of his life and relationships. Russo is known for his keen observations of small-town life and his ability to create richly drawn characters. In "Bridge of Sighs," he delves into the intricacies of family dynamics and the ways in which the past shapes the present. The novel received critical acclaim for its insightful portrayal of human nature and its exploration of the American experience.