Something I thought was exciting, even though this entire book has been captivating. I thought it was super interesting when it states that Yetu “[would] have to live with that for the rest of her days. Her bid to save herself, to save her life, would have the unintended consequence of killing others”(123). I was drawn to this conflict because it frames self-preservation as connected to, or in control of, communal harm. The repetition of the word save in both saving herself and her life draws attention to the amount of desperation in her escape. I think the idea of blurring the line between survival and selfishness is very intriguing. It’s a situation no one would ever want to be in, choosing between one and many. The concept of playing God, having the lives of others in your hands, and at the risk of losing your own.

The choice of the word “unintended” highlights the moral weight being placed on Yetu. This further provides a vivid picture of how the lines between collective and individual responsibility have almost completely disappeared. I also liked the way it states that Yetu would have to live with this decision for the rest of her life. It highlights how guilt itself can become a lifelong inheritance, much like the communal memories that she has to carry as a Historian.

I liked how this short sentence exposes a great tragedy built into a very popular situation. (The train scenario of saving one or many) Seeing how the decision of one person is threatening to affect the lives of so many others. This small quote shows so much, the pain and confusion Yetu has to deal with in seeing how her plan to escape might replicate the very harm she is trying to flee.

So far, this book is very interesting to me, which, if I’m being completely honest, I thought I might get bored a bit. I am loving every part of it. I knew the story was going to be interesting, but sometimes the writing doesn’t do the story’s justice. But this one is amazing so far!

Song of the Week: MILK OF THE SIREN by Melanie Martinez (This one I can’t believe I forgot about, but OMG I think it fits very well. This song connects on a more lyrical aspect than the others. I think everyone should give this one a listen!!)