At the Clinic

Though this short story is commonly thought of as an epilogue to Normal People (being set later than the book even though it was written before the book), I don't know if I feel that way about it.
This doesn't quite feel like the right or true ending to me somehow, mainly because their characters are much more evolved in the book and this almost seems like a regression, especially on Connell's part. But also, my point of view on this is undoubtedly influenced by wanting these two to end up together, which is of course not what happens here.
Still, I loved dipping back into Marianne and Connell's world.

“What she feels is not easily expressed anyway. People love all kinds of things: their friends, their parents. Misunderstandings are inevitable.”

Marianne and Connell make my heart ache. Sally Rooney just understands. She has such a way of describing the strangest little compulsions, thoughts, feelings, and behaviours which I always thought were unique to me and indescribable. It makes me feel so painfully seen and surprises me every time.

Obviously 5 stars, it's more normal people. If you don't like it you don't get it