"Where My Heart Used to Beat" is a poignant exploration of memory, loss, and identity, written by Sebastian Barry. The narrative follows the life of a man named John, who is grappling with the legacy of his past and the impact of his experiences during and after World War II. As he reflects on his life, he confronts the profound personal losses and haunting memories that have shaped him, particularly his relationship with his mother and his experiences of love and war.
The story intricately weaves together themes of grief and healing as John embarks on a journey to come to terms with his emotional scars. He revisits significant places and encounters individuals who remind him of his former self. Through beautiful prose, Barry delves into the complexities of the human heart, revealing how love and pain coexist and influence one's perception of reality.