These Precious Days: Essays

Patchett describes the process of having arrived at the cover art for this collection in the essay “Cover Stories.” Keeping this and the artist in mind, comment on the significance of the book jacket. What does the painting of Sparky symbolize?

The importance of relationships is explored in detail across multiple essays in the book. Trace the important relationships Patchett mentions and describes in the book and their impact on her life.

Comment on the title of the book. How does the phrase “precious days” serve as an important motif in the book?

Writing is integral to Patchett’s identity and forms one of the book's central themes. Explore how the typewriter and nightstand are important symbols that highlight this theme.

Examine the role that Parnassus plays in Patchett’s life and how it points both to her deep engagement with literature and the value she places on the idea of community.

How do Patchett’s different experiences with and reflection on death yield a greater appreciation for life? Trace these different instances across the book.

Sooki Raphael, Patchett’s friend, artist, and the subject of the title piece, is seen wearing a black velvet coat embroidered with peonies on multiple occasions. Comment on the significance of this coat in keeping with the character of its owner and the different points in the story where it appears.

Examine how Patchett’s character and world view are evident in the different reflections she chances upon through the experiences she details in these essays.