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: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 23 September 2022
Publisher: Duke University Press

Harris Solomon's captivating book, "Lifelines," delves into the harrowing realm of trauma within one of Mumbai's bustling public hospitals, offering a profound exploration of the lives affected by traumatic injuries stemming from widespread traffic accidents. Through vivid narratives and intimate accounts, Solomon takes readers on a journey into the trauma ward, immersing them in the experiences of patients, providers, and families grappling with the aftermath of such devastating incidents.

Beginning with the immediate aftermath of the accident, Solomon traces the trajectory of trauma as it unfolds, encompassing a range of scenarios from the chaotic scenes of road and railway injuries to the confined interiors of ambulances. He vividly depicts the urgent processes of emergency triage, surgery, and intensive care, where medical professionals strive to save lives amidst the chaos and urgency.

However, the book's focus extends beyond the clinical setting, as Solomon explores the aftermath of trauma in the lives of survivors and the families left behind. He delves into the emotional toll, the physical rehabilitation, and the long-term challenges faced by those who have endured the trauma of losing a loved one. Through these personal stories, Solomon sheds light on the profound impact of trauma on individuals and communities, highlighting the need for comprehensive support and care.

Solomon's exploration of trauma is not limited to the immediate aftermath of the accident. He delves into the long-term consequences of trauma, examining how it reshapes inequalities, infrastructures, and institutions. He argues that medicine itself must be understood in terms of lifelines—patterns of embodied movement that determine survival. By examining the ways in which trauma affects the body and the environment, Solomon challenges traditional notions of healthcare and emphasizes the importance of holistic approaches that consider the interconnectedness of human experiences.

In reflecting on the centrality of traffic to life, "Lifelines" poses a fundamental question: How does medicine move us? Solomon explores this question through a series of thought-provoking essays and interviews with medical professionals, researchers, and survivors. He examines the ways in which medicine shapes our understanding of trauma, our approach to care, and our relationships with one another. Through his insightful analysis, Solomon offers a profound meditation on the role of medicine in shaping our lives and our world.

"Lifelines" is a powerful and compassionate book that offers a deep understanding of the human experience in the face of trauma. Solomon's storytelling is masterful, drawing readers into the lives of his characters and evoking a range of emotions as he explores the complexities of trauma and its impact on individuals and communities. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in medicine, trauma, and the human condition, as it provides a thought-provoking and compassionate perspective on a pressing issue.

In conclusion, "Lifelines" by Harris Solomon is a groundbreaking work that delves into the realm of trauma within the context of Mumbai's bustling public hospitals. Through vivid narratives and intimate accounts, Solomon takes readers on a journey into the lives of patients, providers, and families affected by traumatic injuries. He explores the immediate aftermath of the accident, the long-term consequences of trauma, and the role of medicine in shaping our understanding of trauma and our approach to care. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in medicine, trauma, and the human condition, as it offers a thought-provoking and compassionate perspective on a pressing issue.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 153 x 229 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781478018858