“Two Women Walk Into A Bar” by Cheryl Strayed

With a book title that alludes to a punchline to follow, “Two Women Walk into a Bar” by Cheryl Strayed is certainly no joking matter. This short, yet poignant, personal story details the author’s strained relationship with her disapproving mother-in-law, Joan. But truth be told, there is a zinger worth mentioning: Joan is dying.

The story begins as the young anxious author awaits the arrival of her then boyfriend’s mother at the bar where she works. But the naïve Strayed soon discovers that her future mother-in-law Joan is a distant woman who offers little more than stinging criticisms about her weight, career goals and more. “Two Women Walk into a Bar” is a meaningful tale of how their interpersonal relationship unfolds amid Joan’s prognoses.

Author Cheryl Strayed
Courtesy: cherylstrayed.com

The author is no stranger to the harsh realities of life, much of which she shares firsthand with her readers. Strayed may be best-known for her memoir, “Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail,” as she set out on a journey to heal from the death of her mother. The book was later adapted to a film of the same name in 2014, starring Reese Witherspoon. And her book “Tiny Beautiful Things” is a collection of guidance from both her once-anonymous advice column, as well as her life.

“Two Women Walk into a Bar” reveals how caring for her mother-in-law through an end-of-life experience prompts Strayed to forge a more harmonious relationship with her. Since her own mother had died alone, Strayed is hopeful she might make up for those lost moments through this present experience. She is committed to loving Joan differently, or at least better than she had managed previously. While sorting through clothing, jewelry and family secrets, mutual respect bubbles to the surface, ultimately bringing about a deeper understanding and acceptance of each other.

As time moves on and Strayed and her husband Brian prepare for Joan’s impending death, they wonder, “How will we know when it starts happening?” Peggy, a retired nurse and end-of-life doula assures the couple, “The shift will be quite apparent.” At some point, they both realize the end is near. Peggy also explains there is often a “spiritual component” to dying; many people often feel a need to release what binds them to life before they can make the transition. We become eye witnesses to the shame, blame and regret that Joan appears to rectify within as her life comes to a close.

The unfolding tale will tug at your heartstrings. Many readers comment that Strayed’s story is thoughtful and touching. Others express it is reminiscent of similar accounts they have experienced of a loved ones’ death.

Released in January 2024, “Two Women Walk into a Bar” is available for download as a free ebook to read, or free audible download to listen.