Tell Me More: Stories about the 12 Hardest Things I’m Learning to Say

In this brisk and moving memoir, Corrigan (The Middle Place) explores the language and terrain of intimacy, delving into some of the most difficult and significant things people say to one another. In 12 brief essays, Corrigan describes the ways in which phrases such as “tell me more” and “I know” have shaped her closest relationships. In the title essay, Corrigan slowly raises the stakes, with masterly results (when her sixth-grade daughter calls to talk of an incident in school, Corrigan simply says, “Tell me about it,” rather than something more accusative, and her daughter divulges everything). She also contemplates the many meanings of “I love you” (to a sibling, it could be “Even though we hardly agree about a thing, including who should be president... I love you”) and writes about how the phrase “I know” offers the salve of empathy when no other words will do. At the heart of the memoir is Corrigan’s examination of her friendship with Liz, who died from ovarian cancer. “Every important conversation I have, for the rest of my life, will have a little bit to do with her,” Corrigan writes. At one point, she considers the truth that sometimes only silence can properly evoke. The essays are impactful, and Corrigan offers solid wisdom throughout. (Jan. 2018)