Summary

In “Widows,” Nell responds to her friend Stevie’s letter. She remarks on the annoying “social prerequisite” of discussing one’s health and safety (211). She apologizes for being “cranky about language,” attributing it to her age (211). She reflects on the way they “used to make [fun] of death” (212). Now that she is old, it is gauche to talk of death this way. Stevie is “much younger,” and does not have to think like this (213).

Regarding Stevie’s question about Nell’s wellness since Tig’s death, Nell knows she is not meant to answer honestly. However, since his passing, time has “ceased to be linear” (213). Although strange, she does not think Tig is really gone.

Nell does not send Stevie this letter (216). Instead, she writes a letter saying she and her family are well. She has...