This novel follows a married couple through the long journey of their life together, from adjusting to newlywed life to keeping each other company in old age.
The first volume, “Newlywed Adjustments,” depicts the sweetness and shyness of early marriage, from their first night together to the blending of their daily lives. They also face difficulties with intimacy and the impact of changes at work, weathering conflict and periods of cold silence before making up and finding happiness again.
In the second volume, “Clashing Perspectives,” the couple engage in deep, heartfelt conversations. As they explore new ideas, their views diverge. They grow to understand each other through arguments and compromise, while resisting outside temptations and holding firm to the boundaries of their marriage. Their plans for the family’s future are also challenged by financial pressures.
In the third volume, “Ups and Downs of Life,” the wife unexpectedly becomes pregnant. She goes through the discomforts of pregnancy, the pain of childbirth, and postpartum recovery. Their sex life is affected for a time before gradually returning to normal. They face a crisis at work, disagreements over how to raise their child, interference from elders, a sick child, and disputes with neighbors. They ease the pressure by carefully planning a trip.
In the fourth volume, “Midlife Turning Point,” their bodies and outlooks change as they enter middle age, and the spark of romance is rekindled. As their child grows up, they face a midlife crisis and career bottlenecks. A friend’s marital troubles make them cherish each other even more. They must also contend with changes in their social circle, health concerns, the pressure of raising their child, and tests of family ties.
In the fifth volume, “Together in Old Age,” their bodies grow frail, and they often reminisce about the past. Their sex life becomes less lively, but they enjoy a leisurely retirement. They care for each other through health problems; the arrival of grandchildren brings joy, they reunite with old friends, take an active part in community activities, and contribute to charity, all while facing
