One-line Summary:
In “When She Woke,” a dystopian novel by Hillary Jordan, a woman named Hannah Payne is chromed, her skin genetically altered to a bright red color as punishment for having an abortion in a society where the procedure is illegal.
The Scarlet Letter of the Future
Set in a future United States, “When She Woke” explores a society where religious fundamentalism has taken hold, resulting in a strict moral code and the criminalization of abortion. The protagonist, Hannah Payne, finds herself at the center of this oppressive regime when she is convicted of having an abortion and is subjected to chroming, a process that turns her skin a vivid red color. This punishment serves as a visible reminder of her crime, akin to the scarlet letter worn by Hester Prynne in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s classic novel.
As Hannah navigates her new reality, she is forced to confront her own beliefs, the consequences of her actions, and the oppressive nature of the society she lives in. Through her journey, the novel explores themes of individuality, freedom, and the power of personal choice in the face of societal expectations.
A Journey of Self-Discovery
“When She Woke” follows Hannah as she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, grappling with her own guilt, shame, and the judgment of others. As she navigates a world that is hostile towards her, she encounters a range of characters who challenge her beliefs and help her question the society she once blindly followed.
Hannah’s encounters with other chromes, individuals who have been similarly punished for their crimes, reveal the diversity of experiences and perspectives within this dystopian society. Through these interactions, the novel explores the complexities of morality, forgiveness, and redemption.
A Critique of Religious Fundamentalism
At its core, “When She Woke” is a critique of religious fundamentalism and the dangers of a society governed by rigid moral codes. The novel raises important questions about the separation of church and state, the role of religion in shaping public policy, and the impact of such policies on individual freedoms.
Through its portrayal of a society where women’s bodies are controlled and policed, the novel also highlights the ongoing struggle for reproductive rights and bodily autonomy. It serves as a cautionary tale, reminding readers of the potential consequences of allowing religious beliefs to dictate public policy.
Key Takeaways:
- The novel explores the oppressive nature of a society governed by religious fundamentalism and the criminalization of abortion.
- Hannah’s journey of self-discovery challenges her beliefs and forces her to question the society she once blindly followed.
- “When She Woke” serves as a critique of religious fundamentalism and raises important questions about the separation of church and state.
- The novel highlights the ongoing struggle for reproductive rights and bodily autonomy.
“Sometimes a hard sacrifice is necessary to protect the greater good.”
In “When She Woke,” Hillary Jordan presents a thought-provoking dystopian society where the consequences of religious fundamentalism and the criminalization of abortion are explored. Through the journey of Hannah Payne, readers are confronted with questions of morality, individuality, and the power of personal choice. The novel serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the importance of protecting individual freedoms and the ongoing struggle for reproductive rights.
