Solnit's Desk

Solnit's desk was given to her by a close friend early in her adult life. Because her friend was nearly stabbed to death by her ex-boyfriend, Solnit views the desk as a gateway to, and a reminder of, all the violence women have suffered. Early in the memoir, she recounts all the essays, books, and emails she has written on its surface. The desk constantly reminds her to make room and to fight for marginalized and silenced identities.

Lyon Street Apartment

The Lyon Street Apartment was Solnit's first apartment after moving out of her childhood home. Located in the projects, the neighborhood was deemed dangerous. However, Solnit found comfort and freedom in the surrounding community, and particularly in her private space. She describes the safety and grounding it granted her, as well as a newly established sense of independence. She saw it as the foundation for...