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hectaizani's review
4.0
In the afterward Jesmyn Ward talks about how her research for her upcoming novel led her to write this short story. The book that she read talked about folks who escaped slavery and came together in hidden communities. Mother Swamp was her take on how one woman might have created a hidden matriarchal community that lasted for several generations. So beautifully written, and I'm excited for the upcoming novel as well.
lauren_soderberg's review against another edition
5.0
A beautiful, richly layered tale that feels mystical and magical. The prose is lush and exquisitely crafted. I was enthralled from beginning to end. This story is yet another example of why Jesmyn Ward is one of the most brilliant writers of all time.
sprainedbrain's review against another edition
dark
emotional
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
deecreatenola's review against another edition
5.0
Jesmyn Ward. What more do you need to say?
Okay, I'll say more. This is almost like a fable, but based on true stories. Very vivid. Different from other things I've read from her. Beautifully written, of course.
Okay, I'll say more. This is almost like a fable, but based on true stories. Very vivid. Different from other things I've read from her. Beautifully written, of course.
lilukaw's review against another edition
3.0
2.5 Beautiful writing style, and the story started off very promising, but left me feeling unsatisfied by the end.
madibee88's review
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
lit_vibrations's review against another edition
4.0
Another great short story part of the A Point in Time series, which is a transporting collection of stories about the pivotal moments, past and present, that change lives.
This story follows a hidden community built by people escaping slavery. We have one woman that managed to escape a plantation, create shelter, and give birth to a child that would help continue her legacy for generations to come. First Mother made a deal with island men from another village that began with her daughter. Once each girl born turned seventeen they’d return to the village to select a man to help them bare a child. If born a girl they’d remain with the mother. But if born a boy the son would be returned to the village and taught how to be a man.
Different mothers from each generation tell their stories of courage and survival until the cycle ends with Afice. Being the last of nine generations of women who survived enslavement, sickness, and hunger. It’s now Afice’s turn to decide whether she will continue her ancestors legacy and bare a child or choose her own path.
Jesmyn Ward is such an incredible writer. I love how she created such a powerful fictional perspective on Maroon communities that was inspired by true historical events and research. Maroon communities are quite interesting, and clearly aren’t discussed enough as a part of history because this was the first I’ve heard of them. Overall, this was a really great quick read definitely wish there was more to continue the story. It had one of those endings that left you with unanswered questions.
This story follows a hidden community built by people escaping slavery. We have one woman that managed to escape a plantation, create shelter, and give birth to a child that would help continue her legacy for generations to come. First Mother made a deal with island men from another village that began with her daughter. Once each girl born turned seventeen they’d return to the village to select a man to help them bare a child. If born a girl they’d remain with the mother. But if born a boy the son would be returned to the village and taught how to be a man.
Different mothers from each generation tell their stories of courage and survival until the cycle ends with Afice. Being the last of nine generations of women who survived enslavement, sickness, and hunger. It’s now Afice’s turn to decide whether she will continue her ancestors legacy and bare a child or choose her own path.
Jesmyn Ward is such an incredible writer. I love how she created such a powerful fictional perspective on Maroon communities that was inspired by true historical events and research. Maroon communities are quite interesting, and clearly aren’t discussed enough as a part of history because this was the first I’ve heard of them. Overall, this was a really great quick read definitely wish there was more to continue the story. It had one of those endings that left you with unanswered questions.
mnboyer's review against another edition
4.0
A compelling short story about the generations that have come before you, how you honor them, and how you craft your own space in the modern present. Lovely prose. Good ending. Quick read, but lots of depth to be had.
socorrobaptista's review against another edition
4.0
Uma pequena narrativa que nos mostra algumas das possibilidades de ser livre durante o período escravagista estadunidense. Uma história focada na força e na inteligência da mulher. Muito bom.