It Takes a Worried Woman: Essays

Debra Monroe's book "It Takes a Worried Woman" explores the idea that all past hardship could have been prevented and all future hardship might still be, and is a meditation on the price of effort exerted against fixed circumstances. It explores sexism, racism, hate speech, violence, Monroe's grief about dwindling access to the natural world, and her fears as her daughters adult life unfolds.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 15 October 2022
Publisher: University of Georgia Press

Debra Monroe has always delved into the root of trouble, believing that a single incident can lead to a chain of negative events. She subscribes to the notion that every problem has a definitive cause and a clear-cut solution, which serves as her entry point into this mindset. In her book, It Takes a Worried Woman, Monroe pushes the boundaries of her faith to the extreme, suggesting that all past hardships could have been avoided and that future difficulties might still be mitigated. However, it is important to recognize that one person's trouble often amounts to a mere ripple in the vast flow of history. This book becomes a contemplation on the cost of exerting effort against seemingly insurmountable circumstances.

The essays within this collection are rich in history, filled with lyrical prose and moments of dark humor. Monroe explores a wide range of topics, including sexism, racism, hate speech, violence, her deep sorrow over the diminishing access to the natural world, and her concerns as her daughters' adult lives unfold. Whether she is depicting the societal pressure to marry, the quest for a familiar figure who can transform into her mother, or childcare as a game of calculated risks, Monroe approaches these problems with a measured and thoughtful perspective. She examines the potential solutions to these issues, as well as the challenges that may remain unsolved forever.

Through her writing, Monroe emphasizes the significance of hope, new strategies, unwavering patience, and endurance in the face of trouble. She reminds us that even when problems seem insurmountable, there is always the potential for growth and transformation. By adopting a proactive approach and cultivating these qualities, we can overcome obstacles and find ways to navigate the complexities of life.

In conclusion, Debra Monroe's book, It Takes a Worried Woman, offers a profound exploration of the source of trouble and the resilience required to overcome it. Through her thoughtful and lyrical writing, Monroe challenges our beliefs and encourages us to embrace hope, new strategies, and unwavering endurance in the face of adversity. This book is a valuable resource for anyone seeking insights into the complexities of human experience and the power of resilience in the face of trouble.

Dimension: 216 x 140 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780820363080