The Diary of a Saint

In Short

The Diary of a Saint by Arlo Bates is a poignant narrative told through the diary entries of Ruth Privet, a young woman living in the fictional New England village of Tuskamuck. The story spans a year in Ruth's life, detailing her experiences with love, heartbreak, family, and community. Through her diary, Ruth shares her thoughts on her broken engagement with George Weston, her deep friendship with Tom, and her efforts to support those around her. The novel explores themes of morality, social expectations, and personal growth, offering a glimpse into the life of a single woman in a close-knit community. Ruth's journey is one of resilience and self-discovery, as she navigates the complexities of her relationships and finds purpose in her role as a caretaker and friend.

The Story

The diary begins on January 1st, with Ruth reflecting on the beauty of the world and her own life. She introduces the reader to her family, including her mother and her Aunt Naomi, and mentions her broken engagement with George Weston, a man she once loved deeply. Ruth's entries reveal her struggles with the aftermath of this breakup and her attempts to understand her feelings and those of the people around her.

As the months progress, Ruth becomes increasingly involved in the lives of her neighbors. She befriends Tom, a troubled young man who is at odds with his religious family, and tries to offer him support and guidance. Ruth also takes an interest in the welfare of the less fortunate in her community, particularly the Brownrig family, whose daughter Julia is pregnant and unwed. Ruth's compassion and sense of duty lead her to assist Julia during her illness and eventual death, and she later cares for Julia's baby, Thomasine.

Throughout the diary, Ruth grapples with her emotions and the expectations placed upon her by society. She reflects on her relationship with George, wondering if she made the right decision in ending their engagement. Ruth's interactions with Aunt Naomi, a gossipy and judgmental relative, highlight the social pressures she faces as a single woman in a small town. Despite these challenges, Ruth remains committed to her principles and her desire to help others.

The story takes a dramatic turn when Tom, who has been a source of comfort and friendship to Ruth, decides to marry Julia on her deathbed to legitimize her child. This act of selflessness deepens Ruth's admiration for Tom, and she finds herself drawn to him in a way that complicates her feelings. However, Tom's marriage to Julia and his subsequent death in a tragic accident leave Ruth heartbroken and alone, yet more determined than ever to care for Thomasine and continue her work in the community.

The diary concludes on December 31st, with Ruth reflecting on the year's events and the lessons she has learned. She expresses gratitude for the love and support she has received and finds solace in her role as a caretaker and friend. Despite the losses she has endured, Ruth remains hopeful and committed to living a meaningful life.

How It Unfolds

January: The diary begins Ruth introduces herself: She reflects on the beauty of the world and her own life, setting the tone for her thoughtful and observant nature. Broken engagement: Ruth mentions her breakup with George Weston, hinting at the emotional turmoil she is experiencing. Friendship with Tom: Ruth begins to spend time with Tom, a troubled young man, and tries to offer him support.

February to April: Community involvement Assisting the Brownrig family: Ruth becomes involved in the lives of the Brownrigs, particularly Julia, who is pregnant and unwed. Julia's illness and death: Ruth cares for Julia during her final days and is present when she marries Tom to legitimize her child. Caring for Thomasine: Ruth takes on the responsibility of raising Julia's baby, Thomasine, and finds purpose in her new role.

May to August: Emotional struggles Reflecting on relationships: Ruth grapples with her feelings for George and Tom, wondering if she made the right choices. Social pressures: Ruth faces judgment from Aunt Naomi and others in the community, highlighting the challenges of being a single woman. Tom's marriage and death: Tom's tragic death leaves Ruth heartbroken, but she finds strength in her commitment to Thomasine and her community.

September to December: Growth and resolution Continuing her work: Ruth remains dedicated to her responsibilities, finding solace in her role as a caretaker. Reflecting on the year: Ruth looks back on the events of the year, expressing gratitude for the love and support she has received. Hope for the future: Despite her losses, Ruth remains hopeful and committed to living a meaningful life.

The People

• Ruth Privet: The protagonist and diarist, a compassionate and thoughtful young woman who navigates the challenges of love, loss, and community expectations.
• George Weston: Ruth's former fiancé, whose broken engagement with Ruth sets the stage for her emotional journey.
• Tom: Ruth's close friend, a troubled yet noble young man who marries Julia to legitimize her child and later dies tragically.
• Julia Brownrig: A young woman who becomes pregnant out of wedlock and dies shortly after giving birth, leaving her child in Ruth's care.
• Aunt Naomi: Ruth's judgmental and gossipy relative, who represents the social pressures Ruth faces as a single woman.

In Its Own Voice

I have been standing ever so long at the window, and now that the curtains are shut I can see everything still. The moon is shining over the wide white sheets of snow, and the low meadows look far off and enchanted. The outline of the hills is clear against the sky, and the cedars on the lawn are almost green against the whiteness of the ground and the deep, blue-black sky.

— January 1st entry

I told him," said I, the blood fairly throbbing in my cheeks, "that I should marry you. You've asked me, you know!

— October 24th entry

What It's Really About

The Diary of a Saint is a deeply personal exploration of love, loss, and the search for meaning in a small, tightly-knit community. The novel delves into the complexities of human relationships, the impact of social expectations, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Ruth's journey is one of self-discovery, as she learns to navigate her emotions, support those around her, and find purpose in her role as a caretaker. The story also highlights the importance of compassion and the power of community in overcoming life's challenges.

Why Read It Today

The Diary of a Saint offers a compelling glimpse into the life of a young woman in 19th-century New England, providing insights into the social norms and expectations of the time. Readers who enjoy historical fiction, particularly stories set in small towns, will find much to appreciate in this novel. Ruth's diary format allows for an intimate and reflective narrative, making her struggles and triumphs feel deeply personal. The story's themes of love, loss, and resilience remain universally relatable, offering a timeless exploration of the human experience. While the language and attitudes reflect the period, the emotional depth and character development make this a rewarding read for those interested in historical and literary fiction.