Chapters 31-40 Summary and Analysis

Chapter 31 "Dark-Eyed Junco; lake level: 4211.20'," begins with Williams quoting Emily Dickinson: "Pain prepares us for peace."

A dark-eyed junco smacks into the bedroom window and falls to the ground. The bird is only stunned. Although Williams wants to hold and console to the bird, she does not. Instead, Williams returns to Diane who says that she is ready to go. Later Diane gives Terry a list of questions to ask Dr. Smith. Terry slips into clinical mode and makes the call.

It is New Year's Eve and the family is planning funeral arrangements. Fuses are growing short. John thinks that Diane might die in the night. The children kiss their mother goodnight and watch as their father closes the bedroom door. No one sleeps.

Diane continues to grow weaker and has not been able to eat for weeks...