16 Days of Activism

As we mark the start of the international campaign, 16 Days of Activism, an initiative opposing violence against women and children, we would like to share a remarkable novel with local readers: The Memory of the Air by Caroline Lamarche.

Published in English translation by Héloïse Press in the UK in 2022, the autobiographical novel is a sophisticated and introspective narrative about a toxic relationship. As the narrator shares with us her memories of a past relationship, we discover the small details hidden behind psychological abuse until we are led to witness and understand a major traumatic event in her life.

The Memory of the Air was the book that put Héloïse Press on the literary map for me. Exquisitely written, profound and deeply empowering, the text itself is testimony to survival, and the possibility of beauty after trauma. It is a book that brings understanding and solace. It is an honour to be able to share it now with South African readers.

The headlines in my inbox this morning were devastating, as always, when we confront GBV:

16 Days of Activism: How the state continues to fail women

The story: Monday marks the start of the international campaign, 16 Days of Activism, an initiative opposing violence against women and children.

The stats: In the first quarter of the current financial year, 93 women were killed, 212 were victims of attempted murder, and 704 reported being raped.

What’s more: An in-depth probe by the Public Protector found that the justice and social development departments, as well as the police, did not put adequate measures in place to effectively protect victims of gender-based violence.

Where so many institutions fail us, literature often offers a space for comprehension, empathy and healing. Sharing stories helps us to make sense of the unspeakable, to reimagine a future beyond hurt.

Please read Dawn Garisch’s review of: The Memory of the Air by Caroline Lamarche. Dawn’s novel, Breaking Milk, was published by Héloïse Press in the UK.

‘Héloïse Press champions world-wide female talent. Héloïse’s careful selection of books gives voice to emerging and well-established female writers from home and abroad. With a focus on intimate, visceral and powerful narratives, Héloïse Press brings together women’s stories and literary sophistication.’ — Aina Marti, Founder

In this respect, Karavan Press shares a common vision with Héloïse Press and it is a privilege to be giving a platform to the stories we are passionate about.

Last year, at the time of 16 Days of Activism, we launched a new edition of Tracy Going‘s powerful memoir, Brutal Legacy. We will continue publishing stories that expose and challenge GBV, and that empower survivors.