The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead (2016) – A Review

Colson Whitehead’s The Underground Railroad is a gripping, genre-defying novel that reimagines the history of the Underground Railroad, the network of abolitionists who helped enslaved people escape to freedom. Winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, the book blends historical fiction with elements of magical realism, telling the story of Cora, a young enslaved woman, who seeks freedom by escaping her brutal plantation life through an actual underground railroad—a literal train system.

Historical Fiction Meets Magical Realism

In Whitehead’s reimagining, the Underground Railroad is no mere metaphor; it is a physical train that operates beneath the earth, transporting runaway slaves to freedom. This magical realism element transforms the historical setting, elevating the narrative into a surreal adventure. By giving the Underground Railroad a literal form, Whitehead brings an added dimension to the concept of escape and freedom, making it a dynamic symbol of hope and possibility.

The train, both a literal and symbolic force, represents not just the means of physical escape but also the emotional and psychological journey of breaking free from the constraints of a system built on dehumanization. Cora’s harrowing experiences highlight the brutality of slavery, but the fantastical nature of the train offers a glimpse of liberation in a world that constantly seeks to deny it.

The Struggles of Cora: A Journey to Freedom

Cora’s journey is central to The Underground Railroad. She is a young woman who, after enduring the horrors of slavery, decides to escape and seek a better life. The novel follows her journey as she travels through various states, each more dangerous than the last. Her experiences are a reflection of the larger struggle for freedom and human dignity, as she encounters both kindness and betrayal, allies and enemies.

Through Cora’s perspective, Whitehead explores themes of survival, identity, and the complexities of resistance. The psychological toll of slavery—particularly the way it strips individuals of their humanity—is evident in Cora’s struggles. She must not only survive physically but also emotionally and mentally, as she faces constant fear, uncertainty, and the challenge of maintaining hope in a hostile world.

Themes of Race, Oppression, and the Legacy of Slavery

At its core, The Underground Railroad is an exploration of race, oppression, and the historical trauma caused by slavery. Whitehead confronts the uncomfortable truths about America’s past, showing how slavery was not just an economic system but a deeply entrenched social and racial institution that permeated every aspect of life.

Through his vivid portrayal of life on the plantation and the horrors of slavery, Whitehead underscores the emotional and societal scars left by such a system. The novel forces readers to confront the dehumanizing effects of racism and the long-lasting impact of slavery on both individuals and society as a whole. Cora’s journey is not only one of physical escape but also a quest for personal and collective healing.

Conclusion: A Powerful and Thought-Provoking Work

In conclusion, The Underground Railroad is a deeply emotional and thought-provoking novel that offers a fresh perspective on a pivotal moment in American history. Whitehead’s blending of historical fiction and magical realism makes this book a unique and compelling read. Through Cora’s harrowing journey, the novel explores the enduring power of resistance and the transformative potential of freedom.