The superficial trope of the big happy family where whatever happens, the parents’ love for each other is never even challenged by mistakes, misunderstandings, third parties, boredom, financial issues, etc. They still adore each other after decades, so much so that they are making out in front of the kids, or they are hiding from them for this purpose, hahaha, so very naughty. OR, if there is any challenge, it’s solved ridicoulosly easily within one week between them.

I’ve never seen it recommended anywhere and actually, the book has some flaws, too but Lionel Shiver’s Post-Birthday World had a big influence on me.

I was into a similar situation and was constantly questioning my decisions, was drowning in the ocean of “what ifs”… The story in the book and how it is implemented showed me that there is no real point in torturing yourself with thoughts like what would be better, if you decided differently. Instead, there are always pros and cons in every situation, you just don’t know about the other option’s cons, simply because you’re not in it.

We were both downvoted, so apparently there are some Passenger fans here. 😅

Cormac McCarthy: The Passenger