THE ARCHIVIST

Matthias Lane, archivist of a prominent university and guardian of Emily Hale's letters to T.S. Eliot, meets Roberta Spire, a graduate student and poet, who is curious about Emily Hale and her relationship with Eliot. The theme of this tale of intellectual intimacy is the power of love, religious conversion and personal identity. Guidall envelops the listener in these interconnected lives, disappearing into the background as the characters gain shape. Toren reads the diary of Matthias's deceased wife, whose life strangely mirrors that of Viviene Eliot, wife of T.S. Eliot. Amidst it all, Cooley brings to life the purpose, drive and love of archivists and librarians, as expressed by Matthias Lane. Haunting and passionate, Guidall captures the essence of what motivates and inspires creative intellectuals. M.B.K. © AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC/JAN 00]