how can one write a collection of artists' story while completely being aware of their own struggles that it seamlessly hold the book together? some narrations can be dense and hectic, especially if complex emotions are involved and explored. olivia laing's the lonely city managed to incorporate the feeling of one's loneliness finding comfort on the artistry and creations of people who were plagued by loneliness their entire lives. everything is so balanced in this book. 

isolation is a sad, inconsolable alienation, but the book demonstrates that art manages to hold a bridge and shed light as to why we feel this way, and how having an outlet in an isolating world is the way to recognise humanity. loneliness is a singularity: an emotion that needs self-awareness. and by baring the artists' story, one can recognise some parts that are deemed relatable and familiar.

it's crazy how loneliness is so specific, so deeply personal, and yet the art of creating and the ability to recognise beauty and ugliness, allows us not to feel that lonely. art offers some semblance of reprieve that we are not alone in our suffering. i love this book sooo much <3