I am truly overjoyed that Paul Hendrickson did not succumb to his profound and debilitating depression by taking his own life, as he had seriously considered. Instead, he discovered the photographs and life of Marion Post Wolcott, and it seems her life was significant enough to save his own. In my view, Paul Hendrickson is undoubtedly the finest biographer of our time. He leaves no stone unturned and explores every possible avenue in his pursuit of uncovering the truth or a more engaging story behind his subject.
Hendrickson details how he became an integral part of this book during the research process. He realized that he had to be in it, contrary to the typical approach of reporting a life. I compare his writing style to what is known as creative non-fiction. Although those familiar with this genre might not agree with my classification, I am expressing my personal perception of the term. There are numerous stories to tell, and Hendrickson employs a unique method. Rather than presenting a straightforward, chronological account, he deviates from the beaten path, taking us on a journey that reveals the complex and often messy nature of life. Those who have traveled without the comforts of luxury can better understand the grime and stench associated with the open road, and yet, when you see the bigger picture, the beauty can be truly astonishing.
The life of Marion Post Wolcott was indeed beautiful and worthy of this book. She was an exceptionally talented individual, yet all too human, experiencing the same pitfalls that we all encounter as we navigate through life. Hendrickson dedicated himself to uncovering the reasons why a woman of such great talent, with a promising future ahead, would seemingly abandon her craft to raise a family and build a life beyond her own. It is precisely this aspect that Hendrickson found so compelling. In her later years, in a loving letter from a grandchild, Marion revealed why art, and our conceptions of it, can sometimes be overshadowed by the love of serving others and being there in times of need. Of course, there were many other factors that contributed to Marion Post Wolcott's decision to give up her art, and no one could have presented it more effectively than Hendrickson.
I have come across criticism of this book, suggesting that Hendrickson was being overly self-indulgent and that the book was too focused on his own feelings towards Marion, his fascination with her, and even his admitted fantasies about the attractive woman from the past. However, in the same review, the critic also mentions how the lengthy book makes you reflect on yourself, much like what happened to Hendrickson. In my opinion, it's hard to have it both ways. But regardless of what the critics say, the facts remain: Looking For The Light is another captivating read by Paul Hendrickson. It is a book that is simultaneously erotic and sensual, dark and disarming, and exhibits both feminine and masculine qualities in all its projections, whether through the voices and images of the past or the memories of those still living who remember her for her beauty, her long list of accomplishments as a mother, and her role as a good wife.