Analysis of The Main Character of Salvage The Bones: Esch Batiste

Introduction:

In Jesmyn Ward's novel Salvage the Bones, the reader is taken on a powerful journey through the eyes of a teenage girl named Esch Batiste. Set in the Gulf Coast region of Mississippi, the novel explores themes of poverty, racism, family, and natural disaster as Esch and her family face the impending threat of Hurricane Katrina. As Esch says "the storm is coming, and we are not ready" (Ward, 3). The novel follows Esch as she tries to keep her family together, protect her brothers, and come to terms with her own identity and place in the world. Through Esch's character, the reader is able to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of these themes and the impact they have on individuals and communities. In this essay, I will analyze Esch's character as it develops throughout the novel, using quotes from the text as evidence.

Body Part:

Esch is first introduced as a strong-willed and determined teenager. She is fiercely protective of her brothers and takes on the role of a mother figure to them, despite her own youth. For example, she states, "I will fight to the death to keep them safe" (Ward, 7). This determination and sense of responsibility are recurring themes in Esch's character throughout the novel.

As the novel progresses, we see Esch struggle with her own identity and place in the world. She grapples with her mixed-race heritage, feeling like she does not fully belong in either the white or black communities. She says, "I am not white or black, just me, Esch Batiste. And I'm tired of trying to make myself something for somebody else" (Ward, 93). This inner turmoil is mirrored in her relationship with Skeetah, her brother, who also struggles with his identity.

Esch also faces challenges related to her gender. She is aware of the limitations placed on her as a young woman and feels pressure to conform to societal expectations. She says, "I want to be a woman, not just a girl" (Ward, 57). Despite these obstacles, Esch ultimately finds the strength to stand up for herself and her beliefs. She asserts, "I know what I want, and I'm going to take it" (Ward, 112).

Conclusion:

In Salvage the Bones, Jesmyn Ward masterfully portrays the complexities of Esch Batiste's character. Through her struggles and triumphs, we see the human experience laid bare. Esch's determination, inner turmoil, and sense of self all contribute to the novel's powerful exploration of identity, family, and community. The novel shows that even in the face of adversity, one can find the strength to fight for oneself and one's beliefs.