"Housekeeping" is a novel written by Marilynne Robinson, first published in 1980. The story is set in the fictional town of Fingerbone in the Pacific Northwest and revolves around the lives of two sisters, Ruth and Lucille, who are orphaned at a young age.
After the death of their mother, the sisters are initially cared for by a series of relatives. However, their lives take a more unconventional turn when their eccentric aunt, Sylvie, comes to look after them. Sylvie, who is a wanderer with a transient lifestyle, introduces a sense of impermanence and unpredictability into the sisters' lives.
As the narrative unfolds, the novel explores themes of family, identity, and the human connection to the environment. Sylvie's unorthodox approach to life challenges the conventional norms of their small community. The story delves into the complex relationships between the characters, particularly the evolving dynamic between the sisters and their mysterious aunt.
Robinson's prose is often lyrical and contemplative, inviting readers to reflect on the nature of existence and the passage of time. "Housekeeping" is celebrated for its atmospheric writing, profound insights into human experience, and its exploration of the transient nature of life. The novel has received critical acclaim and is considered a modern classic in American literature.
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