"Swimming Studies" is a memoir by author Leanne Shapton, exploring her experiences with swimming, both as a competitive athlete and as a means of personal reflection. Throughout the book, Shapton intertwines her memories of swim meets, the rituals associated with training, and the emotions that arise from the experience of being in water. The narrative captures the essence of how swimming shapes identity and offers a unique lens through which to view life and its challenges.
Shapton's writing is poetic and reflective, often diving into her thoughts on growth and change. She uses swimming as a metaphor for introspection, highlighting how the sport's discipline helps her confront various aspects of life, including love and loss. The water serves as a backdrop for exploring deeper emotional currents.