After Bob's death, Fern chose to stay, being houseless - "If I left, it'd be like he never existed," she said, "I couldn't pack up & move on". Some who suffer from loss feel guilty about survival & regard recovery as a betrayal. The pains they cling to is an expression of loyalty. They need time with emotional support, not blame for being stubborn.
Victim of capitalism and intrepid pioneer of a second life. Non-actors convincing. Celebration of wide open spaces, hard labor, a way of life born out of necessity but full of optimism.