Ann Patchett’s Truth & Beauty: A Friendship chronicles the relationship of two women from their humble beginnings to a tragic end and the many situations they had tackled together along the way. After graduating, Ann Patchett moved in with a fellow writer from high school, Lucy Grealy. The two quickly bonded over similar interests and aspirations to be successful writers. They shared a home in Iowa for a few years while attending a writer’s fellowship program. During that time, they developed a love for each other that withstood the test of time. Patchett considered herself to be an average woman with no special qualities; however, Grealy quickly captured the attention of everyone she came in contact with. After suffering from childhood cancer,…show more content… Patchett moved in with her boyfriend and Grealy travelled internationally in order to consult with innovative plastic surgeons in hopes that one could fix her deformed jaw. To keep in touch, they corresponded through endless letters and daily phone calls. Wherever one moved, the other would visit as often as possible. They even applied for the same fellowships and grants for their writing in an effort to spend time together. While both of their lives had rocky moments, they always depended on each other for support. For instance, their romantic lives were common ground for struggle, as Grealy engaged in a constant string of bad relationships and Patchett was divorced in her…show more content… She was featured in dozens of magazines and television shows for her work because Patchett and everyone she encountered loved her for the amazing person that she was. Her popularity throughout her life was largely based on how well she treated people, including perfect strangers. Patchett explains that although Grealy did not know everyone, they felt like they knew her. She was an unforgettable person. The two easily befriended many other artists and writers as a result and attended lavish parties in New York.
Patchett went to as many of Grealy’s appointments and surgeries as she was able to. She did not want her friend to feel alone in the world and sink deeper into depression. Patchett gave Grealy most of her attention, always enjoying the time they spent together. They kissed each other, held one another, and told each other everything. Patchett was proud of the open and honest relationship that they had. She considered Grealy
