The deep empathy exhibited by the characters at various turns is also embedded in the language of the novelist and becomes a part of the world of the reader, as well. Soft yet detailed descriptions of artifacts and emotions change the way the reader thinks, and bring about the knowledge that love requires shared understanding -- which is not the only thing that those in love share.
Beyond a shared understanding, an enduring love is built on a shared need for one another, and this is what truly drives the action of the novel. Though Tin built a life and a family far away from Burma, his enduring love for his youthful sweetheart draws him back to Burma in his autumn years. His need for her is so strong that he sacrifices everything he has built, even the daughter he loves, to search for the woman he left many decades ago. Though this love might lead to some questionable actions, it is unquestionably strong, enduring, and true.
Perhaps even attempting to define true love misses the point of love, as true love endures all and is thus infinite. It is impossible to Judge Tin Win's abandonment of his family for the woman he loves, because his love for her is truly unavoidable and supremely strong. Others will continue to depict love in different ways, but Sendker's depiction of enduring love in the Art of Hearing Heartbeats will remain an enduring and indelible commentary on love for generations.
Post-Script
The writing of this essay was undertaken as a labor both of learning and of love. It is hoped that readers are moved to explore love more fully in this novel and in their own worlds.
Reference
Sendker, Jan-Philipp. The Art of Hearing Heartbeats. New York: Other Press, 2012.
