The Best Intentions

The Best Intentions by Ingmar Bergman, published by Penguin Random House in 2018, is a 400-page novel that explores the complex relationship between the author’s parents. Set in 1909, the story begins with the meeting of Anna, a nurse from a wealthy family, and Henrik, a poor trainee priest living with his lover. Through a blend of fiction and personal history, Bergman delves into the emotional nuances of their courtship and the challenges they face in the early years of their marriage.

Readers will find a rich narrative that captures the intricacies of family life and the dynamics of love and conflict. The novel is the first in a trilogy that includes Sunday’s Children and Private Confessions, offering a deeper look into the themes of romance, coming of age, and the supernatural. Bergman’s unique perspective as a filmmaker informs the storytelling, providing a vivid portrayal of his parents’ lives before his birth. This edition invites readers to engage with the historical and literary elements woven throughout the narrative.