In this reflective and deeply poetic memoir, Joseph Monninger shares his final days on the Maine coast with piercing honesty and gentle humor. Facing stage-four lung cancer, he finds solace in the simple rhythms of coastal life—from the daily visits of a harried bald eagle and the vibrant chorus of local wildlife to humble routines like stacking wood and enjoying his regular breakfast at Karen’s diner. Monninger writes of quiet rituals, community lore, and nature’s relentless beauty, crafting a narrative that captures both the power of memory and the acceptance of life's finitude, all set against the backdrop of a timeless, windswept Maine seascape.

Key Points:

• Monninger confronts his mortality while finding joy in everyday moments on the Maine coast.
• A bald eagle, accompanied by crows and gulls, becomes a daily focal point and metaphor for life’s persistent challenges.
• His routine—stacking wood, swimming, and keeping track of local wildlife—imbues his days with purpose and reflection.
• Regular visits to Karen’s diner provide comfort, serving as a reminder of cherished community connections.
• Subtle contrasts between the modernity of medical care and the rustic simplicity of his cottage highlight the evolving pace of his life.
• Mentions of tools like the Jøtul 118 woodstove underscore the warmth and nostalgia of his coastal living.
• Local lore and memories, including tales of fishermen and historical shipwrecks, enrich the narrative with a sense of place and tradition.

Joke:
It looks like that bald eagle’s got more frequent flyer miles than a retiree at the local bingo hall!
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