Lifelines: The Traffic of Trauma

Lifelines by Harris Solomon explores the trauma ward of a Mumbai public hospital, tracing the pathways of patients, providers, and families through road and railway injuries, emergency triage, surgery, and intensive care. He argues that medicine must be understood in terms of lifelines, patterns of embodied movement that determine survival.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 23 September 2022
Publisher: Duke University Press

Harris Solomon's captivating book, "Lifelines," delves into the heart-wrenching realm of trauma care within one of Mumbai's bustling public hospitals. Through vivid narratives, Solomon takes readers on a journey into the lives of patients, providers, and families who grapple with the devastating consequences of traumatic injuries stemming from widespread traffic accidents. He meticulously traces the trajectory of traumas, from the chaotic scenes of road and railway accidents to the confined interiors of ambulances, the sterile environments of emergency triage centers, the operating rooms where surgeries unfold, and the morgues where the lives of those who succumb to their injuries are mourned.

As Solomon guides us through these various stages, he unveils the profound impact of trauma on individuals, communities, and society as a whole. He explores how trauma not only disrupts lives but also reshapes inequalities, infrastructures, and institutions, leaving lasting scars on the lives and labors of clinical spaces. Solomon's profound insight lies in his contention that medicine itself must be understood through the lens of lifelines—patterns of embodied movement that determine survival.

Through his thoughtful reflection on the centrality of traffic to life, "Lifelines" poses a fundamental question: How does medicine move us? Solomon invites us to contemplate the profound ways in which medical interventions, treatments, and care pathways shape our experiences and well-being. He sheds light on the complexities of the healthcare system, the challenges faced by healthcare providers, and the emotional toll that accompanies the care of trauma patients.

"Lifelines" is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the unwavering dedication of healthcare professionals. It offers a glimpse into the lives of those who have endured unimaginable pain and suffering, as well as the tireless efforts of those who work tirelessly to save and improve their lives. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the profound impact of trauma, the complexities of healthcare, and the power of compassion and resilience in the face of adversity.

Weight: 544g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781478016212