The Memory of Running

The Memory of Running, by Ron McLarty (2004)

When Smithson “Smithy” Ide loses his parents and his older sister during the same week, he knows that his life will never be the same. The protagonist, an obese, chain-smoking, hard-drinking veteran of the war in Vietnam, leaves his Rhode Island home and begins an improbable cross-country journey on his bicycle.

As the long trek begins, McLarty takes the reader back in time. The book continues in a parallel track throughout as the reader learns how Smithy has gotten to his current state. His childhood is defined by his sister’s struggle with schizophrenia and the rest of the family’s need to protect her from herself. The other defining experience for Smithy is his military service, during which he is gravely injured.

On the surface there seems to be no particular reason to root for Smithy, but other than a few youthful indiscretions, McLarty’s main character rarely seems to commit an offense against another. This, coupled with the terrible treatment he often receives from strangers, brings the reader to Smithy’s side.

Not surprisingly, much of Smithy’s journey is about coming to terms with his inability to love another person. In a figurative sense, the protagonist seems to have been running from a romantic relationship out of fear of getting hurt. Will his literal and personal journey allow him to let go of his demons and open up his heart?

McLarty has written a beautiful, epic story that this reviewer devoured in a few short days. Highly recommended for adult readers.