1
general::
Phrase(s): pick up the pieces (of something)
1. Lit. to gather up each piece or part. • Norma picked up the pieces of the broken lamp. • She stooped down to pick up the pieces. 2. Fig. to try to repair emotional, financial, or other damage done to one’s life. • I need some time to pick up the pieces of my life after the accident. • After a while, Fred was able to pick up the pieces and carry on.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
Redeem a bad situation, restore matters to normal, as in Once fighting ended, the task force picked up the pieces and restored democracy. [Late 1800s]
American Heritage Idioms