Crows Over the Wheatfield

I just read a book called Crows Over the Wheatfield by Adam Braver.  This book intrigued me for a couple of reasons.

It begins as Claire, a professor of art history, tragically hits and kills a young boy while driving home from work one October evening.  Claire has spent her career studying the life and death of Vincent Van Gogh.  The story then parallels Claire's life, as it begins to spiral out of control with the often troubled life of the artist.  Claire, in fact, flees to France to work on her book about Van Gogh and escape the chaos set in motion by the accident.

One reason I was so captivated by the story is that it accentuates the fragility of life---how quickly things can change at a moment's notice.  It often forces the reader to look deeply within themselves at their own values, relationships, and life in general.

The other reason it captured my attention was the reference to Van Gogh.  It left me wanting to read more about his life.  Especially since the place where he painted "Crows Over the Wheatfield" and later took his own life was in Auvers, France-- only a short train ride from Paris.  It so happens that a friend/coworker and I hope to be visiting Paris soon courtesy of a teaching grant.  If we are lucky enough to get this tremendous opportunity, I hope to add a trip to Auvers-sur-Oise to our itinerary.

As I was later searching for more information on Van Gogh, I came across the video Starry, Starry Night by Don McLean.  I have always loved the song, but watching this video of Van Gogh's works while listening to this song is hauntingly beautiful.  I hope you enjoy it as much as I.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dipFMJckZOM