Colm Tóibín's evocative reading of 'Five Bridges' captures a thrilling climbing adventure intertwined with personal reflections and nature's beauty. The emotional depth unfolds during a car ride where Paul navigates family dynamics and aspirations. Conversations reveal the lasting impact of the pandemic on relationships, while a hiking trip prompts nostalgia and the realities of adulthood. Tensions rise in a picturesque hostel, and a dinner gathering uncovers camaraderie mixed with introspection, providing insights into the complexities of friendship and belonging.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Paul's Absence
Paul, an undocumented immigrant, didn't support Sandra during her pregnancy.
He prioritized work over their relationship, leading to their separation.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Kerwin's Intervention
Sean Kerwin, noticing Paul's solitary life, intervened and encouraged him to connect with other Irishmen.
Kerwin's concern stemmed from a recent death of a young, isolated Irishman.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Reconnecting with Geraldine
After Kerwin's prompting, Paul reconnected with Sandra and Geraldine.
He began seeing Geraldine regularly on Saturdays, rebuilding their relationship.
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Guy de Maupassant's "The Necklace" is a short story exploring themes of ambition, social class, and the consequences of one's actions. The story follows Mathilde Loisel, a woman who borrows a valuable necklace and loses it, leading to a series of unfortunate events. Maupassant's masterful storytelling and ironic twist make the story a classic of French literature. The story's exploration of human nature and the impact of social pressures continues to resonate with readers. The story's ending is particularly memorable for its unexpected and poignant twist.
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Colm Tóibín reads his story “Five Bridges,” from the March 10, 2025, issue of the magazine. Tóibín, a winner of the Folio Prize and the Dayton Literary Peace Prize, among others, has published eleven novels, including “Brooklyn,” “The Magician,” and “Long Island,” which came out last year.
The New Yorker: The Writer's Voice - New Fiction from The New Yorker 
