Lorrie Moore’s writing in “A Gate at the Stairs” brings a breath of fresh air after a decade filled with seriousness. It has been a decade since her last significant work, “Birds of America,” which delved into themes of despair, loneliness, and absurdity. Despite the long gap between books, Moore’s distinctive style remains easily recognizable. The novel reintroduces Tassie Keltjin, a farm girl navigating the complexities of a liberal arts education in Troy, Illinois, following the events of 9/11.
Tassie immerses herself in a world of intriguing classes and quirky experiences, including her interactions with her roommate Murph and her passion for playing the electric bass. Seeking a job to make ends meet, she becomes a nanny for Sarah Brink, a chef, and her husband, who are looking to adopt a child. Tassie’s involvement in this process provides her with an invaluable education about the complexities of motherhood and caregiving.
However, as the novel progresses, it becomes weighed down by a series of tragic events that seem disconnected and overwhelming. Tassie faces personal and political challenges, including her brother’s decision to enlist. The narrative struggles to unite these disparate storylines, leaving readers with a sense of disjointedness. The book culminates in a perplexing revelation from Sarah, which adds complexity without clarity to her character.
Despite the novel’s potential to explore the complexities of caregiving and motherhood, it falls short of fully realizing these themes. The focus on Tassie’s experiences during her college years holds promise but gets overshadowed by the accumulation of disparate plotlines. Ultimately, “A Gate at the Stairs” may have benefitted from a more focused narrative approach, allowing its central themes to shine more brightly.
