Nine Novels That Make an Art of Earnestness

Bennie Bosley's protagonist, Pining for You, embodies the spirit of holiday romance and grand gestures, much like Tiny Tim's devotion to a goose. Bosley initially worried that such qualities might alienate her from the antihero culture that glorifies cynicism and irony. However, she is content to stand by her belief in the power of sincerity, as she feels it does not equate to simplistic storytelling.

Instead, a sincere protagonist can create dramatic and thought-provoking narratives. Bosley finds solace in the works of authors who share this perspective on earnestness.

A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles showcases this earnestness through Count Rostov, a character who maintains his dignity even while confined to a hotel. Despite his loss of status and luxury, he chooses to remain unchanged, arranging his sanctuary within the hotel and approaching even menial tasks with pride. Throughout the decades, his commitment to curiosity, civility, elegance, and beauty sustains him and those around him.

Tayari Jones' novel Kin displays earnestness through the character of Annie, who remains hopeful and open despite repeated personal devastation. Having been abandoned by her mother as a child, Annie persists in her quest to understand her mother's absence. This hopefulness extends to her relationships with others, as she refuses to give up on those she encounters. Annie's grace in her persistence strengthens her bonds and allows her to find light in even the darkest moments.

Xochitl Gonzalez's Olga Dies Dreaming explores earnestness through the theme of authenticity. The story follows Olga, who runs a luxury wedding planning business but feels an internal emptiness. As she grapples with her restlessness, she questions the world around her and discovers that people often perform emotions rather than genuinely feel them. This realization prompts Olga to seek out authenticity in her own life and in the people she encounters.