Raising Hare

The COVID-19 pandemic is one of this book’s primary motifs. It looms large in the background of the narrative, especially during the first section. The pandemic disrupts Chloe’s life and throws both her work and travel schedules into upheaval. Escaping London’s strict lockdown, she retreats to her country house in order to have more space and freedom of movement. Although she is grateful for the opportunity to leave the city, Chloe is a self-avowed urbanite and initially struggles with the slower pace of rural life. She enjoys her far-flung travel and London’s bustling atmosphere. Additionally, the pandemic itself is a source of constant stress, bringing fear and uncertainty both to her life and to society as a whole. She has no idea when she will be able to return to her normal life and initially feels that she cannot make a full commitment to the leveret because she hopes that her country sojourn will be brief. Eventually, however, she finds that slowing down provides a surprising set of benefits. Spending time in nature is soothing to her, and she begins to relax. She no longer feels the need to finish her work projects as quickly as possible.