Discovering the Depths of Ultramarine: A Journey into the Heart of the Sea
There’s something profoundly captivating about books that explore the intersection of humanity and the vastness of nature, and Cory Navarro’s translation of Mariette Navarro’s debut novel Ultramarine drew me in like a siren’s call. The title itself—rich with layered meanings—hinted at a narrative that would resonate deeply. As I turned the pages, I found myself not just reading, but experiencing a rich tapestry of emotions aboard a container ship, offering an intimate look at the lives of its sailor characters, particularly the lone woman in command.
Set against the backdrop of the ocean, Ultramarine weaves a compelling tale through the perspective of a ship’s captain, who is bound to the sea by blood and ambition. The rhythm of the sea is mirrored in her meticulous control over her vessel and crew. Yet, in a single, unexpected moment—a break from routine when the crew requests a swim—everything changes. This seemingly innocuous gap expands, rippling through their lives and unearthing buried tensions. It’s a profound reflection on the fragility of control and the chaos that can ensue when we step beyond our prescribed roles.
One of my favorite passages speaks to this beautifully: "A gap slipped in to the most familiar gestures… a suspended second." This line captures the essence of that pivotal moment. It made me ponder how often we, too, harbor gaps in our daily lives—small moments that could change everything. Navarro’s skill as a playwright and poet shines throughout the novel; her lyrical prose is vivid and evocative, allowing readers to truly feel the heartbeat of the ship—the “great heart that is well and truly alive.” The voice of the ship becomes a character in itself, adding layers to the narrative that keep you engaged long after you’ve turned the last page.
The themes of identity and belonging are intricate and beautifully merchandised through the Captain’s reflections on her lineage, and the way she perceives her relationship with the sea. Her lineage shapes her identity, but it is the sea and its fantastic unpredictability that drive the story forward. You can’t help but be drawn into her world, wrestling with her fears while feeling the exhilaration of the ocean. As the weather begins to misbehave and the dynamics shift dramatically, the tension builds palpably, almost echoing the fierce heart of the ship itself.
Héloïse Press has done a remarkable job in showcasing Navarro’s voice, ensuring that Ultramarine is not merely a story about a woman and her ship, but a literary exploration of the lives at sea, laden with emotion and mystique. The references to classics like Moby Dick and Lowry’s works deepen the text, inviting readers to engage in a literary dialogue that is as enriching as it is entertaining.
In conclusion, I highly recommend Ultramarine to readers who thrive on thoughtfully crafted narratives that not only tell a story but invite reflection on identity, belonging, and the chaos that life sometimes brings. Whether you’re a lover of literary fiction or simply looking for a unique tale that pushes the boundaries of storytelling, this book is worth your time. It’s a journey that has stayed with me, and I suspect it will linger with you, too—a reminder of our connections to the living, the dead, and the unpredictable swells of life. As I closed the cover, I found myself longing not just for the world of ships but for that deeper understanding of my own being, echoing the sentiments of the captain’s log: “I declare…without knowing that they were moving.” Isn’t that the essence of our lives?