Today's Read Team Exploring Themes in ‘What I Saw Before the War’ by Alaya Dawn Johnson
Synopsis: The novelette centers on Maeve, a woman grappling with the loss of her vision while navigating the complexities of family relationships and the imminent threat of war. Set in a small town, her struggle intertwines with magic and deep emotional resonance, highlighting the lengths one will go to protect loved ones.
The Setting and Context
Maeve and her husband, Zeke, have made a life for themselves in a peaceful town, particularly following the death of her father, which had brought its own set of challenges. However, both personal and external threats begin to disturb this tranquility—the onset of her deteriorating eyesight and the looming presence of draft barges ferrying men into the war.
Vision and Perception
The gradual loss of Maeve’s sight serves as a crucial narrative device, symbolizing her struggle against the encroaching darkness of both her physical affliction and the chaos of an upcoming conflict. Initially, her visual disturbances manifest subtly, creating a sense of unease that builds as the story progresses. Words on a page become distorted, familiar faces morph into grotesque caricatures, and her world transforms into a disturbing landscape of shadows.
The Role of Magic
Magic plays a pivotal role in Maeve’s journey. Zeke’s reliance on small family rituals and magics highlights their cultural heritage and the broader implications of their use in a world fraught with social tension and strife. Maeve attempts a ritual intended to alleviate her suffering, but it leads to a greater revelation of her latent capabilities; she might possess a small magic of her own.
Family Dynamics and Conflict
The intricacies of Maeve’s relationship with her brother, Fer, add another layer to the narrative. Their reunion is strained, characterized by a mixture of familial loyalty and underlying resentment. Fer embodies the societal expectations imposed on them, navigating the complexities of his family life while trying to reconcile with Maeve’s unconventional choices. Their interactions reflect the broader themes of acceptance and the burden of familial loyalty against personal aspirations.
The Threat of War
As the plot unfolds, the narrative explores the impact of war on individual lives and relationships. Maeve’s fear for Zeke’s safety and the potential conscription of young men shape her motivations. The draft hangs over their lives like a dark cloud, prompting Maeve to consider actively employing her newfound abilities to protect her loved ones from the fate that awaits them.
Thematic Conclusion
In the climax of the story, Maeve’s realization of her abilities becomes a turning point. The magic she potentially possesses offers her a means to influence her surroundings, hinting at the power of agency in the face of uncontrollable circumstances. The story concludes with a sense of hope mingled with uncertainty as Maeve vows to use her newfound strengths to shield her family from the devastation of war.
About the Author
Alaya Dawn Johnson, known for her meaningful explorations of identity and belonging, crafts a poignant narrative that resonates on multiple levels. ‘What I Saw Before the War’ not only addresses the experience of losing one’s sight but also provides commentary on societal structures, family ties, and the essence of courage in times of turmoil.
Purchase Information
Readers interested in delving deeper into Maeve’s journey can find “What I Saw Before the War” by Alaya Dawn Johnson available for purchase.
