Tenth of December is a short story written by George Saunders. It was published in 2013 and quickly gained attention for its deep themes and emotional resonance. The story explores themes of life, death, morality, and human connection. Saunders creates a narrative that is both dark and uplifting, highlighting the struggles of two characters who are brought together in unexpected ways.
Main Characters
- Don Eber: A middle-aged man who is battling terminal illness. He feels like a burden to his family and is struggling with thoughts of ending his life.
- Robin: A young boy with a vivid imagination. He is kind-hearted but socially awkward, often getting lost in his own thoughts.
Setting
The story takes place on a cold winter day in a quiet, rural area. Snow covers the ground, and the atmosphere is both serene and harsh. The isolated setting plays a crucial role in the development of the story, as it mirrors the characters’ internal struggles.
Plot Summary
1. Introduction to Robin and His Imagination
The story begins with Robin, a young boy, who enjoys daydreaming and imagining heroic scenarios. On this particular day, Robin decides to venture out into the snowy woods behind his house. He pretends he is on a mission to rescue a damsel in distress, lost in his vivid imagination.
2. Don Eber’s Struggles
Meanwhile, Don Eber, a middle-aged man with terminal cancer, is also in the woods. He has come to the woods with the intention of ending his life. Don feels he is a burden to his family and believes that by ending his life, he will spare them the pain of watching him suffer.
3. An Unexpected Encounter
As Robin plays in the woods, he notices Don, who is struggling in the cold. Initially, Robin believes Don is part of his imaginary world, but soon realizes that he is a real person in need of help. Despite his fear, Robin decides to approach Don.
4. A Moment of Connection
Robin tries to help Don, but Don is initially resistant. He doesn’t want to burden anyone, especially a young boy. However, Robin’s persistence and kindness begin to break through Don’s emotional barriers. Don starts to see the world through Robin’s innocent eyes, and he begins to question his decision to end his life.
5. Robin’s Struggle
While trying to help Don, Robin falls into the icy water of a nearby pond. Don, despite his weakened state, finds the strength to rescue Robin. This act of saving the boy gives Don a renewed sense of purpose. He realizes that his life still has value, even in its final moments.
6. A New Beginning
After the rescue, both characters are physically and emotionally exhausted. However, they have also found new hope. Don decides to return home, choosing to live out his remaining days with his family rather than ending his life. Robin, too, is changed by the experience, gaining a deeper understanding of life and the importance of helping others.
Themes
- Life and Death: The story explores the thin line between life and death, showing how quickly decisions can change the course of one’s life.
- Human Connection: Despite their differences, Robin and Don connect on a deep level. Their interaction shows how human connections can bring meaning to life, even in the darkest moments.
- Hope and Redemption: Don’s decision to save Robin and his subsequent change of heart illustrate the power of hope and the possibility of redemption, even when things seem hopeless.
Conclusion
Tenth of December is a powerful story that touches on deep themes of life, death, and human connection. George Saunders masterfully weaves together the lives of two very different characters, showing how a single moment can change everything. The story is both heart-wrenching and uplifting, leaving readers with a sense of hope and a reminder of the value of life, no matter how difficult it may be.