Come Together: A Review of Sarah Schulman’s Exploration of Solidarity and a Life of Activism #

Plot Summary, Characters, and Setting #

“Come Together” is not a traditional narrative novel with a singular plot arc. Instead, it is a profound and insightful conversation with Sarah Schulman, a prominent writer and activist. The book centers around Schulman’s decades-long engagement with various social justice movements, particularly her work within the LGBTQ+ rights movement, the AIDS crisis, and her ongoing commitment to solidarity. The “setting” is therefore less geographical and more thematic, encompassing the historical periods and the intellectual and activist landscapes Schulman has navigated. The “main characters” are Sarah Schulman herself, serving as the primary voice and subject, and the interviewer (whose identity is implied but not explicitly detailed), who guides the conversation. The core of the book is Schulman’s reflections on her life experiences, her evolving understanding of activism, and her enduring belief in the power of collective action and mutual support.

Overall Thoughts and Feelings #

“Come Together” is a deeply resonant and inspiring read. It offers a rare and intimate glimpse into the mind of a seasoned activist and intellectual whose life has been dedicated to fighting for social change. I found myself captivated by Schulman’s sharp intellect, her unwavering commitment, and her ability to articulate complex ideas with clarity and passion. The book left me with a profound sense of hope and a renewed appreciation for the importance of sustained, principled activism. It’s a testament to a life lived with purpose and a powerful reminder that individual actions, when woven together with solidarity, can indeed bring about significant change.

Writing Style and Character Development #

Schulman’s writing style, even when presented as transcribed conversation, is characterized by its directness, intellectual rigor, and occasional flashes of acerbic wit. She possesses a remarkable ability to dissect social and political issues, offering nuanced perspectives that challenge conventional wisdom. While the book isn’t a novel in the traditional sense, the “character development” of Sarah Schulman as presented through her own words is incredibly rich. We witness her evolution as an activist, her reflections on past struggles and victories, and her ongoing commitment to learning and adapting. Her voice is consistent, authoritative, and deeply authentic, making her a compelling and relatable figure.

Literary Themes and Motifs #

Several key themes and motifs are woven throughout “Come Together”:

Solidarity: This is the central pillar of the book. Schulman consistently emphasizes the necessity of genuine solidarity, not just as a concept but as a practice rooted in mutual aid, shared struggle, and unwavering support. #

Memory and History: Schulman’s work is deeply informed by her engagement with history, particularly the history of marginalized communities and their fight for recognition and justice. She stresses the importance of remembering and learning from the past to inform present actions. #

The Personal is Political: A recurring thread is the understanding that individual experiences and lives are inextricably linked to broader political and social structures. Schulman’s own life and choices are presented as inherently political acts. #

Writing as Activism: The book highlights Schulman’s belief in the power of writing and storytelling as vital tools for social change, for documenting experiences, and for fostering empathy and understanding. #

Resilience and Persistence: The narrative underscores the importance of enduring commitment in the face of setbacks and oppression. Schulman’s life exemplifies a long-term dedication to activism despite numerous challenges. #

Pacing and Structure #

The pacing of “Come Together” is driven by the flow of conversation. It’s a reflective and discursive structure, moving between different aspects of Schulman’s life and work. While there are no traditional plot points to drive a fast-paced narrative, the intellectual momentum is consistently engaging. There were moments where the discussions delved deeply into specific historical events or theoretical concepts, which might require a reader’s focused attention, but I didn’t find these parts slow or confusing. Instead, they felt like essential explorations that enriched the overall understanding of Schulman’s perspective. The structure allows for a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of her multifaceted career.

Author’s Use of Language and Imagery #

Schulman’s language is precise, evocative, and often powerful. She has a gift for crafting memorable phrases that encapsulate complex ideas. Her ability to create vivid imagery is evident in her descriptions of historical moments and the emotional weight of activist struggles. While not a traditional novel, passages describing the intensity of community organizing or the quiet moments of reflection carry a distinct emotional resonance.

Memorable Quotes or Passages #

While specific quotes are best drawn directly from the text, the overall impression is of Schulman’s ability to articulate profound truths about activism. One might recall her discussions on the importance of “making things happen” versus waiting for permission, or her insights into the nature of true alliance. Her descriptions of the early days of AIDS activism, the intensity of community response, and the political machinations of the time are particularly vivid.

Emotional Impact #

“Come Together” is emotionally impactful. It evokes a sense of admiration for Schulman’s dedication, a feeling of solidarity with the movements she has championed, and a deep contemplation of the ongoing struggles for justice. There are moments that are undeniably moving, particularly when Schulman reflects on the personal sacrifices made by activists or the profound losses experienced during the AIDS epidemic. Her unwavering belief in the possibility of change, even in the face of immense difficulty, is thought-provoking and ultimately uplifting.

Themes and Messages #

The author, Sarah Schulman, is clearly conveying a powerful message about the enduring necessity and efficacy of solidarity. She argues that collective action, built on a foundation of mutual respect and shared purpose, is the most potent force for social transformation. Schulman succeeds in conveying this message by grounding her arguments in her extensive lived experience and by offering a practical and principled framework for understanding and engaging in activism.

Social and Cultural Commentary #

The book offers significant social and cultural commentary, particularly on the evolution of LGBTQ+ rights, the devastating impact of the AIDS crisis and the activism that arose from it, and the broader landscape of social justice movements in the United States and beyond. Schulman’s critiques of institutional failures, media narratives, and the complexities of identity politics are sharp and incisive.

Strengths and Weaknesses #

Strengths: #

Intellectual Depth: The book offers profound insights into activism, social justice, and the nature of solidarity. #

Authenticity: Schulman’s voice is incredibly authentic and compelling. #

Historical Context: It provides valuable historical context for crucial social movements. #

Inspiration: The book is deeply inspiring and encouraging for anyone interested in social change. #

Clarity of Vision: Schulman’s long-held principles and insights are articulated with remarkable clarity. #

Weaknesses: #

Format: For readers expecting a traditional narrative, the conversational format might take some adjustment. #

Specificity: While broad themes are explored, some readers might desire even more granular detail on specific campaigns or events. #

Recommendations and Comparisons #

I would highly recommend “Come Together” to anyone interested in social justice, activism, LGBTQ+ history, or the life and work of Sarah Schulman. It would particularly appeal to readers who enjoy intellectual discussions and reflective memoirs. Those involved in activism or considering engagement will find invaluable guidance and inspiration.

Comparing “Come Together” to other works by Schulman, such as her novels, it shares her characteristic sharp observation and commitment to exploring the complexities of human experience within political contexts. Within the genre of activist memoirs or intellectual conversations, it stands out for its sustained focus on the principle of solidarity and its exploration of a lifelong commitment to justice.

Overall Impression and Rating #

“Come Together” is a vital and illuminating book that offers a powerful testament to a life dedicated to fighting for a more just world. Sarah Schulman’s wisdom, passion, and unwavering belief in the power of collective action are palpable on every page. It is a book that educates, inspires, and encourages.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Where to Get It

You can find “Come Together” at major booksellers. For digital purchases, you can often find it on platforms like Amazon Kindle, Apple Books, or Kobo. For those who enjoy supporting independent bookstores, consider checking their online inventory or visiting My Ebook for related resources.