The old king in his exile

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How do we keep one another's company, especially when faced with the challenges of Alzheimer's? In this exquisite memoir, Arno Geiger invites readers into the intimate space he shares with his father, exploring their relationship through mutual solitude and shared experiences. The tender stories reveal the quiet love that exists between them, highlighting the meaning of being alive even in our final days. Arno's father, a complex man shaped by his upbringing and experiences in World War Two, becomes increasingly difficult to understand as he ages. Initially attributing his father's changes to aging and the end of a long marriage, Arno soon realizes that Alzheimer's is the true culprit. This illness magnifies human characteristics and societal norms, revealing the confusion we all face. Understanding that his father won’t seek help, Arno embarks on a journey to truly know him. He remains by his father's side, listening to his unexpected poetic expressions, discovering that his father retains his wit and charm. Filled with light, humor, and profound insights, this memoir offers solace to anyone grappling with the loss of an aging loved one, making it a deeply affecting narrative.