54 pages 1 hour read

Sarah Winman

Still Life

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2021

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Chapters 3-4Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapter 3 Summary: “The Stuff of Dreams (1953-1954)”

Cress joins Ulysses on his move to Italy. Cress has not received much love in his life, and in communion with his beloved Cherry Blossom tree, he was convinced to start a new life since Ulysses said he would miss him. Once they’ve made it off the ferry into France, Cress reveals that he’s smuggled the Claude into France with them. Over the eight days it takes for them to cross three countries into Italy, Cress marvels at the world.

Alys sheds light on the mystery that led to Davy’s death. On the journey, she shares glimpses of her artwork in her journal. A picture of Ginny and her boyfriend, Devy Kaur, who also has an intellectual disability. This reveals the truth behind Ginny’s pregnancy. After seeing the sketch, Ulysses mails the picture to Peggy with an update on their travels.

When the group arrives in Florence, a notary named Massimo helps them set up in their new life. The home they’ve inherited from Arturo is massive and beautiful, and Ulysses and Cress are overwhelmed by their new wealth.

The townspeople of the neighborhood remember the legendary story about Ulysses, and the news of his return spreads quickly.