Still Life

Gamache visits Myrna’s bookstore. Seeing Gamache with a book called Being, whose theme is forgiveness, Myrna suggests the related book Loss and summarizes its thesis: that “life is loss” (138), and without a higher purpose and the ability to adapt to changes, misery sets in. Myrna explains that she left her work as a psychologist when she realized that most of her clients would rather lead “still” lives than make progress.

Myrna mentions Timmer. At Gamache’s request, she shares her impression of Timmer as an intelligent and perceptive woman and a good friend. Myrna reveals that, the day before Timmer died, she told Myrna that she didn’t like the Neals, Jane’s parents. Myrna is about to reveal something else Timmer said but stops herself. Thinking that the case is already solved, Gamache decides not to press her for more information.

After buying a book about hunting from Myrna’s store, Gamache returns to the bistro to read. The coroner appears and delivers the autopsy report. She points out that the arrow passed directly through Jane’s heart and suggests that only a skilled bow hunter could make such a shot. She also shares her appreciation for Peter and Clara’s art, as well as her recollection of stories

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