The Catastrophe Hour

The essays explore profound themes such as aging, death, and the passage of time, reflecting the author's personal experiences and insights over several years. Daum captures the poignant feeling of life's fleeting nature, particularly during moments she calls "the catastrophe hour," where beauty and despair intertwine. Her sharp wit and intellect shine through as she tackles familiar subjects like divorce, dating, and friendship, offering fresh perspectives that affirm her status as a significant voice in contemporary essay writing.