“When Breath Becomes Air” is a memoir written by Paul Kalanithi, first published posthumously in 2016. It chronicles Kalanithi’s life and his battle with terminal lung cancer.
The book begins with Kalanithi’s early years, detailing his upbringing and education, including his decision to pursue a career in neurosurgery. As a neurosurgeon, Kalanithi grapples with the complexities of life and death, witnessing both the fragility and resilience of the human spirit.
However, Kalanithi’s life takes an unexpected turn when he is diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer at the age of 36. The memoir documents his experiences navigating his illness, grappling with questions of mortality, and finding meaning and purpose in the face of death.
The title “When Breath Becomes Air” alludes to the book’s central theme of mortality and the fleeting nature of life. It reflects on the transition from life to death, and the profound significance of each breath we take.
Overall, “When Breath Becomes Air” is a poignant and introspective memoir that explores the universal themes of life, death, and the search for meaning. It offers readers a deeply personal and insightful reflection on what it means to confront one’s own mortality with courage, grace, and resilience.
