I am only 70 pages into The Cider House Rules and already it has effected me. For obvious reasons, I do not know very much about being pregnant or birthing a baby, nor how an abortion can be induced. But many of these facts are discussed in detail in the first 100 pages of Cider House Rules.
I am absolutely horrified by the procedures that were executed "off-Harrison". And although I've seen in movies about abortion, the use of tools such as a suction cup or knitting needle, I never really knew or understood how those instruments were used to induce abortion. (That might seem very naive to some, I'm sure, but its true)
These descriptions horrified me (as they should) which I imagine is part of the intent. In accordance with what Rochelle mentioned in an earlier post, I also consider myself to be Pro-life.
But I also consider myself to be pro-choice. And my readings thus far have solidified this outlook. I believe that there are reasons one might medically need or feel compelled to choose an abortion (i.e. incest, rape, etc.) and I do believe that, regardless of the legalities of it all, women who want to terminate a pregnancy will find a way. And if the only way that exists involves going to an "off-Harrison" doctor/clinic then I am appalled and horrified! Thus, the concept of "delivering mothers" as discussed in the book.
I think Rochelle put it so eloquently in her post and I agree that it is something that should not be in the legislative arena. Even more so now that I've been somewhat educated in the practices I never bothered to imagine or research.
This book does in fact induce a passionate response! From me at least ... and I am only 70 pages in! Wow!
But, be warned, for me the descriptions were very disturbing. Particularly, but not excluded to, the events that lead to Homer being introduced to the "other" work that Dr. Larch engages in. But just because it was hard for me to read, and perhaps because it was so hard to read, I believe this novel to be a valuable and important narrative.
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Agreed...not for the faint of heart. I am about 100 pages in (probably won't finish this month, but I will eventually). I think this is a very interesting book to see a different perspective. I do not agree with a lot of the goings on, and I am Pro Life. But, I have never been opposed to trying to understand why someone might believe differently than I do. THis is an interesting book for me because of that. I also think it is a very well, smartly written book. I find this an interesting book, and I am glad mom chose it or I would not have ever read it. Part of the reason I love this book club is that it introduces me to different books I would not read otherwise, but I do not feel I will be in trouble if I do not read books. I hope you are all enjoying the book club and that the book choices are broadening your horizons, as they are mine.
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