"Astronomer's Wife" by Kaye Boyle

In the opening paragraph of Kay Boyle's Astronomer's Wife, the reader is introduced to a woman named Mrs. Ames who feels oppressed by the lack of equal and intelligent conversation with her spouse, the astronomer. While Mrs. Ames takes care of all the household matters, the astronomer seems to be consumed by his profession, spending long hours in solitude, lost in his thoughts or gazing at the stars through his telescope. Boyle paints a picture of a woman who feels unfulfilled and disconnected in her marriage, longing for something more.

As the story progresses, it becomes evident that the astronomer's obsession with his work leaves little room for him to fulfill his role as a husband. Mrs. Ames finds herself seeking stimulation outside of her marriage, which leads to an encounter with a plumber that sparks a transformation within her. Through her conversations with the plumber, Mrs. Ames begins to realize that her dissatisfaction in her marriage is not solely due to a lack of understanding between the sexes, but rather a deeper longing for fulfillment and respect.

Get quality help now

Marrie pro writer

Verified writer

Proficient in: Plumber

5 (204)

“ She followed all my directions. It was really easy to contact her and respond very fast as well. ”

+84 relevant experts are online

Hire writer

The plumber serves as a catalyst for Mrs. Ames, igniting a sense of self-worth and empowerment within her that she had been missing in her marriage. His willingness to engage her in conversation and treat her with respect contrasts sharply with the astronomer's dismissive attitude towards her. Mrs. Ames finds herself drawn to the plumber's theories and ideas, feeling a connection that she had been craving for so long.

It is natural for individuals to seek out relationships that fulfill their emotional needs when their current circumstances leave them feeling neglected or unfulfilled.

In Mrs. Ames's case, her interactions with the plumber awaken a desire for respect and understanding that had been lacking in her marriage. Despite her initial attempts to suppress these feelings, they begin to surface, prompting her to question the nature of her relationship with her husband and the possibility of finding happiness elsewhere.

Throughout the story, Boyle explores themes of loneliness, longing, and self-discovery through the character of Mrs. Ames. By juxtaposing her stagnant marriage with the newfound connection she experiences with the plumber, Boyle highlights the transformative power of human relationships and the importance of mutual respect and understanding in fostering emotional fulfillment.

In conclusion, Astronomer's Wife is a poignant exploration of the complexities of marriage and the search for personal fulfillment. Through the character of Mrs. Ames, Boyle delves into the emotional landscape of a woman who finds herself at a crossroads, torn between the familiarity of her current life and the allure of something new and exciting. Ultimately, the story serves as a reminder of the transformative power of human connection and the importance of honoring one's own emotional needs in the pursuit of happiness.