Saturation Project is a memoir in poetic form written by Christine Hume, a renowned author with a notable body of work. The book comprises three interconnected essays: “Atalanta: An Anatomy,” “Hum,” and “Ventifacts.” Although these essays converse with each other, each one stands alone as a complete piece.
“In Atalanta,” the focus is on girlhood seen through the eyes of the Greek huntress Atalanta, a companion of Artemis. The essay weaves together mythological tales with historical examples of girls raised by bears from both ancient and modern times, intertwined with the author’s reminiscences of her own girlhood. The narrative defies a linear structure, leaving subtle hints and echoes that linger in the minds of both the speaker and the audience, evoking a sense of wandering through a dense forest. The speaker subtly hints at experiences of childhood abuse and incest, blending disturbing imagery with innocence, creating a haunting atmosphere. The essay highlights the vulnerability of girls in a world where they are often seen as prey, drawing attention to the dangers lurking in the woods while also celebrating the freedom and vitality found in the wilderness of girlhood.
The second essay, “Hum,” explores the speaker’s connection with sound and self. The author muses on the symbiotic relationship between the singer and the song, drawing parallels between the act of humming and coping mechanisms. The essay delves into the concept of duality, touching on themes of trauma and survival. The author uses the etymology of the word “hum” to suggest a sense of covering embarrassment or shame, emphasizing the importance of sound and music as both a protective shield and a creative force. Through a continuous presence of the letters “h,” “u,” and “m” on each page, the author evokes a sense of musicality and the primordial sound of the universe, emphasizing the generative power of humming.
The final essay, “Ventifacts,” delves into the elemental power of wind. The author narrates moments of fear experienced by her daughter towards the eerie force of the wind, prompting reflections on sheltering loved ones from the harshness of the world. Drawing on the concept of ventifacts as rocks shaped by wind over time, the essay contemplates the passage of time and the matrilineal bond between mother and daughter. Through a blend of mythological references and personal anecdotes, the essay explores the interplay between sound, wind, and feminine knowledge, creating a layered narrative that intertwines past and present.
As a collection of essays that blur the boundaries between memoir and prose poetry, Saturation Project showcases Christine Hume’s innovative approach to storytelling, reminiscent of works like Citizen by Claudia Rankine and Bluets by Maggie Nelson. Through a collage of diverse elements and nonlinear narratives, Hume skillfully juxtaposes visceral experiences with intellectual reflections, creating a rich tapestry of emotions and ideas that captivate the reader and offer a unique reading experience.
