The Beauty in Breaking

Throughout the book, Harper details the emotional toll of her childhood trauma, particularly experiences where she witnessed domestic abuse. What is the role of trauma in Harper’s reflections and eventual catharsis?

Discuss the role of male relationships in Harper’s life, particularly focusing on Dan, Colin, and her father, Morris. Provide passages from the book to support your response

In her accounts of medical school, residency, and even marriage, Harper often reveals a disconnect between her expectations and her lived reality. Does she ever make peace with this disconnect? Explain, providing evidence from the book to support your response. 

Harper often emphasizes the fragility of the human body. Which of her stories seem to highlight this idea the most? Why?

Discuss the role of Harper’s identity as a Black female doctor within the context of both her career trajectory and her in-hospital experiences. How does Harper embrace these aspects of her identity? Explain, providing evidence from the book to support your response.

Throughout the book, Harper accentuates the need to focus on basic human dignity when treating her patients. How does this mindset relate to her performance as an emergency room physician?

Discuss the relationship between inner (socio-emotional) and outer (physical) healing throughout the book, particularly through the lens of Harper’s personal life.

Harper introduces the book with the following quote by Hazrat Inayat Khan: “God breaks the heart again and again and again until it stays open.” How does this quote provide a framework for the rest of the book, as Harper interweaves her personal and professional life experiences? Provide evidence from the book to support your response.