A review by virtuadoll
I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman

5.0

Took a while to actually write a semi-lengthy review but here we go with my extremely brief thoughts.

Jacqueline Harpman rewrites the essence of life in complete separation from others, which raises the question of whether one's existence is meaningful in a life characterized solely by self-awareness.


“I realized far too late that I, too, had tasted love, endured sorrow, and was ultimately unquestionably human."

This book does something fantastic for me, as it sets out on a quest for humanity and connection among women.
Trapped within the confines of a cage, the protagonist navigates a world where womanhood is shaped by 39 other women surrounding her. Still, the purity of the unknown, combined with the ambiguity of belonging, creates a sense of detachment from the group of women that the main character considers to be both familiar and distinct. She feels she is a stranger, alienated from the rest and completely unable to be human or behave as such, and this is a truth she comes to accept from the beginning.

In the narrative, the protagonist consistently grapples with her humanity, and it's only after she recognizes death draws near that she encounters the understanding of humanity, and therefore the sensation of love.

I was immediately captivated and experienced an incredible range of emotions: from hope to despair, agony to pure shock, and finally deep contemplation.

This story will push you to the brink, haunting your thoughts while still allowing you to revel in the beauty of the descent into madness.