Strays is what a writer I recently read calls those who, for one reason or another, and despite whatever they might have wanted earlier in life, never really become a part of life, not in the way most people do. They may have serious relationships, they may have friends, even a sizable circle, they may spend large portions of their time in the company of others. But they never marry and they never have children. On holidays, they join some family or other group. This goes on year after year, until they finally find it in themselves to admit that they'd really rather just stay home.
In "The Friend" by Sigrid Nunez, the author describes a group she refers to as "strays." These individuals, for various reasons, do not fully integrate into societal norms of family and partnership, despite having friendships and social circles. They can be engaging and appear connected, yet they choose not to marry or have children, often spending holidays with others' families.
Over time, these strays come to realize their preference for solitude, acknowledging a deeper sense of contentment in staying home rather than conforming to traditional life paths. Their experiences reflect a unique perspective on relationships and fulfillment outside mainstream societal expectations.
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All the things you can talk about in anyone's work are the things that are least important.
Race of Cain, ascend to heaven, And cast God down upon the earth!
