All My Puny Sorrows

Yolandi 'Yoli' Von Riesen is introduced as a struggling single mother and author. Her life is complicated by the pressures of motherhood and her inability to achieve literary success.

Yoli receives a shocking call informing her that her sister, Elfrieda 'Elf' Von Riesen, a successful concert pianist, has attempted suicide. This news brings to the foreground the family's dark history with mental illness and suicide.

Yoli visits Elf in the hospital, determined to provide support. However, tensions rise when Elf expresses a desire for assisted suicide in Switzerland, prompting a fierce argument between the sisters.

Despite Yoli's attempts to make Elf realize the value of her life, Elf remains adamant about her wish to seek euthanasia. Yoli struggles with feelings of anger and helplessness, reflecting on Elf's seemingly perfect life.

The narrative takes a turn as Yoli's aunt, Tina, is hospitalized for surgery. This event adds another layer of emotional strain on Yoli and her family, pushing Elf's situation into sharper focus.

Following her hospital stay, Elf is released, defying Yoli's objections. Yoli fears for her sister's mental health, but Elf insists on moving away from the conversation about assisted suicide.

Tragedy strikes again when Yoli's aunt, Tina, passes away. This event deepens the family's grief and adds to Yoli's feelings of loss and helplessness regarding Elf's situation.

While out with her daughter, Yoli learns the devastating news that Elf has died by jumping in front of a train. The method echoes their father's suicide, highlighting the devastating cycle of mental health issues in their family.

In the wake of Elf's death, Yoli must confront her feelings of anger and sorrow. The weight of her sister's decision forces Yoli to examine her own life and the choices she has made.

The aftermath of Elf’s passing brings financial changes to Yoli’s life, as she receives a life insurance payout. This monetary gain allows her to buy a house in Toronto and gives her the motivation to finish her long-stalled book.

With the purchase of a new home in Toronto, Yoli begins to see a glimmer of hope. The death of her sister leads her towards a path of renewal, enabling her to refocus on her writing career.

Despite the changes in her life, Yoli frequently reflects on the events that led to Elf’s tragic end. She grapples with her sister's choices as part of a larger family legacy and comes to terms with her own struggles.