THE ABORTION

The story does concern an abortion, but, more so, the failure of a husband to participate in important discussions relating to their marriage. Imani, a well-educated black woman, and her husband, Clarence, have a two-year old child and a seemingly good life. Their marriage, however, becomes uneasy because Clarence's focus shifts from family to job. Busy as a key advisor to the mayor, his thoughts disregard the family problems, but Imani, now pregnant, reaches a disturbing conclusion. She decides to abort the pregnancy unless Clarence fights to save their unborn child. When he fulfills her expectation regarding her termination plans, Imani recognizes the end of their partnership. Not being a small matter or new experience, Imani thinks of the abortion. While still in college, she hemorrhages after a brutal experience with abortion. Unlike before, the abortion appears like an "assembly line" event now, but with no complications. Clarence, oblivious to her smoldering rage about his complacency, subordinates her needs to those associated with his job. The abortion increases the distance between them: "She had known the moment she left the marriage, the exact second. But apparently that moment had left no perceptible mark." Twice Imani had been scarred by abortion, and Clarence, oblivious to these marks, remains in uncomprehending disbelief as the marriage deteriorates and, then, dissolves.