The Vow, Essay Example

In “The Vow”, there are two different kinds of characters; those who search for the past and those who try to ignore it. In many regards, Krickitt and Kim fall into both of these categories. When the two are married and still have their memories, they show that they are very happy together. However, after their accident, they attempt to find who they are, although these people may not be what they’ve been. It seems that by searching for their past, they are better able to figure out who they were and how they can still live together in spite of what has happened to them.

In the beginning of the book, Krickett has a challenging time recalling that she has been married. Paige has a similar difficulty recalling the previous events of her life in the movie version of the tale as well. Kim as the narrator, explains, “Krickitt looked at me again and back at the therapist. I was sure everyone could hear my heart thudding as I waited for my wife’s answer in silence and desperation”, when she responded “I’m not married” (Carpenter & Carpenter, p.12). At this point in the story, everyone is depressed about the fact that Krickett doesn’t remember parts of who she is, or even who Kim is. Because of this moment, she is forced to explore the past to figure out what her past contains. She believes that in doing so, she will be able to figure out what will make her happy in the present. At this point in the story, it appears that Kim is the type of the person who wishes to live in the present and remind Krickett of their marriage, while Kim wants to piece back her memories because she cannot trust what she knows or what she may have experienced.

Eventually, Kim Carpenter decides that his road to recovery will involve living in the moment. He explains, “Each one of us is the sum total of every moment that we’ve ever experienced with all the people we’ve ever known” (Carpenter & Carpenter, 53). Therefore, he realizes that his identity is tied to his past and his present, and that it is important to value both of these states equally. Doing so allows him to connect his past and present, and accept the fact that he has been married at that it will be important to work to build his relationship with his wife, even though she doesn’t remember a lot about him.

In the end, both characters who are religious people, acknowledge that it is important for them to accept the cards that fate has dealt them. Kim explains, “The Lord is constantly teaching us. I know He has me in His right pocket and I’m very safe there. I love to see Him really work in my life, and I know He’ll use me in His due time.” Kim therefore leaves his destiny to God, knowing that doing so will bring him and his wife together in the end. In doing so, he is more able to live in the future and repair his relationship.

Overall, Krickett is an individual who thought she would be only satisfied by finding her old identity. Instead, she grew to realize that she would need to build a new one with her husband to be happy. Likewise, Kim was depressed by the fact that his wife had no memory, but he realized that he needed to focus on their current relationship in order to recover. Because these two were able to change from focusing on the past to the future, they were able to achieve happiness in the end.

Works Cited

Carpenter K, Carpenter K. The Vow. B & H Books, 2012.