Summary
“Children of the Sea” by Edwidge Danticat is an emotionally charged short story that delves into the complexities of identity, migration, and the profound connection between people and their homeland. Set in Haiti, the narrative unfolds through the exchange of letters between a young Haitian woman and her lover. The story’s format allows readers to witness the deeply personal and heartfelt expressions of love through letters, and the struggle to maintain one’s cultural identity while separated from their homeland.
The central character, a young woman, is separated from her lover, Celianne, due to political turmoil in Haiti. Celianne, along with many other Haitians, embarks on a dangerous journey on a boat to find a better life in the United States (Swarthmore College). The young woman, who remains unnamed, grapples with the uncertainty of Celianne’s journey, fearing for her safety as she goes through the rough waters.
The letters reveal not only her love but also her deep connection to the sea — a powerful symbol of both hope and danger (Swarthmore College). As the story progresses, the letters begin to blur the borders between reality and the supernatural, introducing a mystical element. The characters believe that those lost at sea become “children of the sea,” inhabiting a realm between the living and the dead. This belief infuses the story with a sense of mysticism and cultural depth at the same time.
Personal Opinion
Personally, I was surprised about how much I actually liked the short story. It was rather interesting to read an epistolary piece of writing, as this format is totally new to me. It greatly represents the personal details and efficiently transfers them directly to the reader. That is, one of the most admirable aspects of the story is Danticat’s ability to evoke a strong emotional response. The deep connection between the young Haitian woman and Celianne is portrayed with so much authenticity. I would recommend “Children of the Sea” to anyone interested in personal ties that additionally have a mystical atmosphere being present.
Work Cited
“Children of the Sea. Edwidge Danticat”. Swarthmore College, (n.d.). Web.