In Chapter 22 of The Lovely Bones, Susie Salmon awakens within Ruth Connors's body, experiences Ruth attempting to depart, and remains solely in control, finding immense joy in being alive again, causing her to disregard calls from heaven.
A New Form of Existence: Susie in Ruth's Body
Chapter 22 marks a pivotal moment in The Lovely Bones, as Susie Salmon, from her vantage point in heaven, wakes up inside the physical body of Ruth Connors. This transfer is a profound and unexpected event, allowing Susie to experience life on Earth once more. For Susie, this sensation is described as "the sweetest thing"—a truly cherished opportunity to reconnect with the tangible world she had been separated from after her death.
The Struggle for Control
Upon inhabiting Ruth's body, Susie immediately senses a struggle. She perceives Ruth trying to escape her own body, a natural reaction to the foreign presence within. Susie, attempting to prevent Ruth's departure and hold onto this precious second chance at life, unsuccessfully tries to stop her. Despite Susie's efforts, Ruth's spirit manages to separate, leaving Susie as the sole consciousness inhabiting Ruth's physical form.
Embracing Life Anew
With Ruth's spirit departed, Susie finds herself completely alone in control of Ruth's body. This newfound existence fills her with an overwhelming sense of joy and vitality. So powerful is this feeling of being alive again that Susie consciously ignores the calls she receives from Franny in heaven. Her focus shifts entirely to the present moment and the reality of experiencing life through a physical body, a stark contrast to her previous ethereal existence.
Key Events in Chapter 22
The events of Chapter 22 are critical for Susie's journey, marking a temporary return to the living world. Here's a summary of the key occurrences:
- Susie's Awakening: Susie Salmon's consciousness re-enters the physical realm by inhabiting Ruth Connors's body.
- Ruth's Departure Attempt: Ruth's spirit instinctively tries to vacate her body upon Susie's arrival.
- Susie's Unsuccessful Intervention: Susie attempts to prevent Ruth from leaving, but fails.
- Sole Occupancy: Ruth's spirit departs, leaving Susie in complete control of Ruth's physical form.
- Profound Joy: Susie experiences immense happiness and finds being alive again "the sweetest thing."
- Heavenly Disregard: Susie chooses to ignore communications from Franny, her counselor in heaven, prioritizing her earthly experience.
This chapter sets the stage for Susie to interact with the world she left behind in a completely new and unexpected way, allowing her to gain a different perspective on her family, her killer, and her own unfinished business.
