Review: Time Under Tension by M.S. Harkness.
Fantagraphics, October 2023. 259 pages. p.ill. ISBN 9781683968962, $24.99
Reviewed July 2024
by Beata Kozlowski, Research and Instruction Librarian, Savannah College of Art and Design, bkozlows@scad.edu
Time Under Tension is M.S. Harkness’ third autobiographical graphic novel that offers a raw and honest look at a year of her life post-art school as she works toward her goal of becoming a personal trainer, despite the ever present effects of sexual trauma and abuse. Harkness’ father is on parole for sexual abuse, her relationship with her mother is fraught, she has an on-again, off-again relationship with an MMA fighter who has a girlfriend, and she does sex work on the side to make ends meet.
In Harkness’ art, we see her dedication to her craft on display. The black and white panels are meticulously clean; the pacing and storytelling are on point, and the story moves with a strength and perseverance akin to her own journey of developing both mental and physical fortitude.
This memoir sheds light on the effects of sexual and generational trauma and how that weight manifests, while those burdened with it attempt to live their lives and wrestle it into some type
of submission. Reading about trauma and sexual abuse isn’t living it, but Harkness opens the door to a glimpse of what a life of contending with and surmounting these forces might look
like.
Time Under Tension grapples with heavy themes such as sexual abuse and sex work and is therefore recommended for adult audiences. It would be a strong addition to academic library collections as well as public libraries with graphic novel collections tailored for adults.
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