This book is a wonderful antidote to the minimalist movement and Marie Kondo. Whilst it doesn't dismiss either, it invites us to contemplate our belongings, and before we casually throw them out to make space, or hold onto them without question. On the surface, a memoir, however, 'The Promise of Things' is often times a challenging read as it explores philosophy, psychology, history about the meaning we place on 'our things', and widely uses artists, writers and academics either as subjects, or references. At the time of reading, I wasn't sure how much I'd actually absorbed because it is at times dense - however when I reviewed the chapters, which are like individual essays, I was surprised at how much I realised, learned and retained. I found much to relate to, but especially found the final chapter, 'the empty drawer' incredibly moving. ( )