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Narrative Control Escapes Elizabeth Gilbert

Life stories need not dictate how to live.

Author Elizabeth Gilbert Loses Control Over Pervasing Narratives Surrounding Her Work
Author Elizabeth Gilbert Loses Control Over Pervasing Narratives Surrounding Her Work

Narrative Control Escapes Elizabeth Gilbert

In her latest memoir, "All the Way to the River: Love, Loss, and Liberation," bestselling author Elizabeth Gilbert delves into her personal experiences, including her struggles with sex and love addiction, her tumultuous relationship with her best friend Rayya Elias, and her journey towards self-discovery and healing.

Gilbert, known for her popular books like "Eat, Pray, Love" and "Big Magic," reveals in her new memoir that she turned to 12-step programs as a means of coping with her addictions, finding them more effective than therapy. According to Gilbert, these programs transformed her consciousness, providing her with a newfound sense of purpose and understanding.

The memoir also details Gilbert's relationship with Rayya Elias, a musician and hairdresser who was diagnosed with terminal cancer. The two fell in love, but Gilbert's life took a dark turn as she descended into a hedonistic, drug-addled spiral following Elias' diagnosis.

Gilbert's memoir also explores her comparison between the ancient practices of meditation and prayer, and the relatively new field of psychology. She claims that these ancient practices, particularly meditation and prayer, have proven effectiveness compared to psychology in her personal experience.

Despite her struggles, Gilbert's memoir is ultimately a story of hope and liberation. She leaves her husband for Elias, who had a history of substance abuse, and chronicles her journey towards addressing her addictions and healing. The memoir serves as a testament to Gilbert's resilience and her ability to find solace and strength in the most challenging of circumstances.

Rayya Elias, who was Gilbert's long-time partner, died of cancer in 2018. Gilbert's memoirs detail their intense relationship and a dark period involving a planned attempt to end Elias's life. However, the memoir ultimately focuses on Gilbert's journey towards self-discovery and healing, offering a powerful message of hope and resilience.

"All the Way to the River: Love, Loss, and Liberation" is a raw, honest, and deeply moving account of Gilbert's life experiences. It serves as a testament to the power of self-discovery, healing, and the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity.

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