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A review by rachaelwinterling
Chlorine by Jade Song
3.0
This book is wrought with yearning and obsession. I think these elements are especially highlighted when juxtaposed with Cathy’s POV, as we watch her write letters to Ren from a more passive perspective. That’s not to say, though, that Ren’s perception doesn’t rub off on her at times.
I think what I really took away from this story is Ren’s innate understanding that she was born in the wrong body. She was never meant to be human. Ren spends her time ruminating on her all-consuming need to prepare her body and mind to join the mermaid community. She fixates on this desire so intently that she repeatedly puts herself at risk - in increasingly destructive and gruesome ways.
I think there is a lot of valuable social commentary here, and I loved that the author didn’t shy away from the dark places the mind can go. There’s something about body horror metaphors that just get me. The idea that the body can reflect what’s happening in the mind is so satisfying because mental health often can’t be conveyed visually. This is a great read for Summernif you enjoy horror!
I think what I really took away from this story is Ren’s innate understanding that she was born in the wrong body. She was never meant to be human. Ren spends her time ruminating on her all-consuming need to prepare her body and mind to join the mermaid community. She fixates on this desire so intently that she repeatedly puts herself at risk - in increasingly destructive and gruesome ways.
I think there is a lot of valuable social commentary here, and I loved that the author didn’t shy away from the dark places the mind can go. There’s something about body horror metaphors that just get me. The idea that the body can reflect what’s happening in the mind is so satisfying because mental health often can’t be conveyed visually. This is a great read for Summernif you enjoy horror!