The Undiscovered Country

by Diane Meyer Lowman

Genre: Nonfiction / Memoir

ISBN: 9781639889143

Print Length: 130 pages

Publisher: Atmosphere Press

Philosophy and the deeply personal collide in this memoir about running away from your life and finding yourself.

In her memoir, “The Undiscovered Country,” Diane Meyer Lowman shares her transformative journey of self-discovery, spurred by her mother’s final wish. After her mother’s passing, Diane finds herself adrift, with her children growing up and no one left to care for. Remembering her mother’s words, she decides to revisit an old passion she never had the chance to fully pursue: Shakespeare. Packed with rich descriptions and introspection, the memoir takes readers on an evocative exploration of Diane’s life, her experiences, and the events that shaped her.

Diane embarks on an adventure by enrolling in an M.A. program at the Shakespeare Institute in Stratford Upon Avon, the birthplace of the Bard himself. As she immerses herself in the study of Shakespeare, she discovers that even as an adult, there is much more to learn about herself and her capabilities.

“The Undiscovered Country” not only delves into Diane’s journey with Shakespeare but also provides an overview of her life and the circumstances that shaped her. Diane’s unique yet relatable writing style captures readers unexpectedly, offering vivid descriptions that resonate with many people’s lives. Her analogies, such as comparing her research notes to ingredients waiting to become a gourmet meal without a recipe, add depth and relatability to her narrative.

The memoir goes beyond Diane’s personal experiences and incorporates philosophical musings. Diane raises thought-provoking questions about work and its purpose. Despite having completed her education, raised her children, and had a career, she chooses to embark on the challenge of studying the world’s most renowned literary figure. Her dedication to researching primary texts, refining her thesis, and immersing herself in this new pursuit showcases her thirst for knowledge and personal growth.

Throughout “The Undiscovered Country,” a recurring theme emerges—the quest to find one’s place in the community when circumstances have changed. Diane grapples with the disquieting situation of reaching the end of one stage in life, with no parents to care for and her children now grown. The memoir subtly explores the underlying grief and pervasive sense of being lost that accompanies such a life transition.

While “The Undiscovered Country” is wonderfully written, at times it feels sparse. Certain ideas are left unexplored, some individuals are not properly introduced, and certain terms or acronyms are left unexplained. This occasional lack of context may create confusion for readers, but most of the missing information can be understood within the narrative or by continuing to read further.

In its brevity, “The Undiscovered Country” offers a captivating glimpse into the experiences of an older student in a foreign country, as well as the social landscape of a divorced mother with adult children. Despite its short length, the memoir delivers several poignant moments. Diane’s writing is crisp, expressive, and thought-provoking, making it a worthwhile read for both Shakespeare aficionados and those curious about personal growth and life transitions.

In “The Undiscovered Country,” Diane Meyer Lowman beautifully captures the essence of embracing change, self-reflection, and the profound influence of Shakespeare. This memoir invites readers to embark on a journey of rediscovering identity and finding solace within the pages of literature.