I Survived
Cutting My Hair to Free Myself from Capitalism
Each season of haircutting marked a major life shift, and I recoiled because I was tired of transitioning. I just wanted to be.
Learning to Talk About Domestic Violence
A system that requires us to risk further retaliation when we report being in danger enables and engenders further violence.
Leaving My Near-Death Experience on the Dance Floor
They said I was traumatized, and that my fragile mental state would have to indefinitely play catchup with my rapidly healing body.
The Hunter and the Hunted
Suddenly, I wasn’t just prey, I was bait. In order to hunt him down, I had to be both cautious and on display.
In Kolkata, This Survivor of Domestic Violence Sought Justice—Through the Restoration of Her Property
Rozha fled an abusive marriage, and survived the death of her son. Now she claims what is hers.
On Abuse, Survival, and the Word ‘Victim’
I debated for a long time whether I would describe sex with Reese. I didn’t know if I could stand knowing that it might turn some readers on, that it could sustain their fantasies about underage girls. Some of you have come to this essay for the sex, whether you’d admit to it or not.
Who Agrees That Swimming in the Ocean Is Scary?
It was like a disaster movie, the quiet moment before the asteroid lands. “Swim!” he yelled, but it was too late for me.
The Woman in the Wall: Answering the Knock in the Middle of the Night
A woman living alone has heard every story about the woman living alone. We constantly negotiate the knowledge of our vulnerability, both real and amplified by stories we’re told.
“Mad, or Wicked, or Both”: Women Seeking the South Pole
It wasn’t just that Antarctica was no place for women—it was expressly a place for men.
The Moment Your Life Crashes and Burns: On Divorce, Injury, and Questions Without Answers
It’s been more than four years since my husband announced he was in love with my friend and no longer wanted to be married to me.