Literary Meet

FLO Chennai members gathered at Ms Sushma Tolia’s home for an engaging discussion on Nikki Erlick’s debut novel, The Measure. The book delves into a profound existential dilemma: the global opportunity to learn the exact length of one’s remaining life. The narrative weaves through the lives of eight ordinary people who face this extraordinary choice, including best friends with intertwined dreams, pen pals finding solace in uncertainty, a couple who thought they had time, a doctor who cannot save himself, and a politician whose new knowledge alters his influence. The conversation was dynamic, with members offering varied perspectives on the novel, from finding it challenging to being thoroughly engrossed.

As the discussion unfolded, a prevailing view emerged that, if given the chance, most would opt not to open the box, stressing that life’s value lies in the choices made within the time one has, rather than the length of the string. An intriguing point was raised about how this concept echoes principles found in Indian astrology. The meeting concluded with a note of appreciation for Sushma’s warm hospitality and the delightful spread she had arranged, making the event both intellectually stimulating and warmly enjoyable.

Number of people impacted: There were 9 women attendees