Review: A Bird in the Air Means We Can Still Breathe by Mahogany L. Browne
There’s a special kind of resonance when a book captures a moment in time that feels both specific and universal, and that’s exactly what Mahogany L. Browne achieves in A Bird in the Air Means We Can Still Breathe. As someone who navigated the pandemic in relative suburban comfort, reading these interconnected stories and poems felt like a window into experiences I can only imagine. Browne’s vivid and emotional landscapes invite readers into the lives of New Yorkers grappling with the upheaval brought on by Covid-19, and I found myself wanting to linger in both the sorrow and the resilience that permeated these pages.
At the heart of this collection is a rich tapestry of characters—teens, their families, and their communities—each navigating the complexities of loss, grief, and hope. Browne’s skillful weaving of narratives allows us to revisit familiar faces, creating a sense of continuity that deepens our understanding of their struggles. One character might resonate with a feeling of isolation, while another grapples with job insecurity—all experiences amplified by the pandemic’s relentless grip. This interconnectivity was a constant reminder of our shared humanity.
The writing style in this collection is both lyrical and incisive, with Browne deftly balancing raw emotion and biting realism. Each piece evokes tangible feelings, urging readers to confront the privileges that shape our experiences. It’s a heavy read, undeniably so, yet it’s one that feels essential in reflecting on a time of great upheaval. I couldn’t help but ponder my own position during the pandemic, feeling humbled by the stark contrasts between my ease and the harsh realities faced by those in the book. This introspection is a testament to Browne’s authenticity, particularly in her use of footnotes to emphasize her commitment to grounding her narrative in real-life sources.
One of the standout moments for me was the first story, which presents an almost Armageddon-like scenario that initially caught me off guard. It’s jarring, to say the least, but as I delved deeper into the collection, it began to resonate in the context of societal collapse and transformation. It may not be the most conventional opening, but I believe it serves to set the tone for the disarray that follows.
While this book may not initially lure in younger readers, I genuinely believe it can serve as a catalyst for discussion and reflection, particularly for those seeking to understand how the pandemic shaped lives in diverse communities. A Bird in the Air Means We Can Still Breathe is a powerful time capsule—one that captures both the heartache and resilience defining this era.
For anyone who remembers the tumult of 2020 or even those with only vague memories of masked faces and social distancing, this collection offers a poignant lens through which to view a shared tragedy. It’s not an easy read, but it’s an important one that may linger in your heart long after the final page. I found myself reflecting deeply on my own choices and the experiences of others, and I believe readers who take this journey will find themselves doing the same.
In a world yearning for connection, Browne’s work stands as a reminder that, even amid despair, we can still breathe.
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