Helen Phillips‘ “Hum” is not your typical novel. It’s a haunting, minimalist exploration of motherhood, anxiety, and the ever-present hum of unease that pervades modern life. Told through fragmented diary entries, the novel delves into the mind of a woman grappling with the anxieties of parenting, a growing sense of alienation, and the unsettling feeling that something is deeply wrong.

The unnamed narrator, a mother of two, is plagued by an omnipresent “hum” – a low, persistent vibration that feels both internal and external. It’s a metaphor for the overwhelming sense of unease that grips her, fueled by societal pressures, the demands of motherhood, and a growing disconnection from her own identity. The novel’s strength lies in its ability to capture this intangible, amorphous feeling with precision and unsettling intimacy.

Phillips’ prose is spare and evocative, employing short, choppy sentences that mirror the narrator’s fragmented thoughts and the chaotic nature of her daily life. The lack of traditional plot or clear narrative arc further contributes to the novel’s unsettling atmosphere. Instead of a linear progression, the reader is presented with snapshots of the narrator’s experiences, each entry adding another layer to the complex tapestry of her anxieties.

The novel delves into the complexities of motherhood, highlighting the conflicting emotions and societal expectations that women often face. The narrator’s struggles with her children, her strained relationship with her husband, and her yearning for a sense of self beyond her role as a mother are all presented with a raw honesty that resonates deeply.

“Hum” is not a comfortable read. It’s an unsettling exploration of the anxieties that permeate modern life, particularly for women. It’s a book that will stay with you long after you finish it, lingering in your mind like the persistent hum that haunts the narrator.

Who should read it: Readers who appreciate experimental and minimalist fiction, those interested in explorations of motherhood, anxiety, and the complexities of modern life.

What it’s not: “Hum” is not a light or easy read. It’s a challenging and often unsettling book that requires patience and engagement from the reader.

Overall: “Hum” is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that leaves a lasting impression. It’s a must-read for anyone seeking a nuanced and unsettling exploration of the human experience in all its messy, anxious glory.