Review: I'm Telling The Truth But I'm Lying-Bassey Ikpi.
“I forgive her always, because how can you not forgive someone whose whole life was a sprint towards survival?”
I remember picking up this book just because of the snarky title. What do you mean you’re telling the truth but you’re lying? I had no idea what the book was about, but I was excited to find out. Bassey Ikpi's memoir "I'm Telling the Truth, but I'm Lying" explores the complexity of identity, mental health, and the human experience in an incredibly personal and engrossing way.
One of the aspects I appreciated most about the book was Ikpi's unflinching honesty. She doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of her experiences, instead confronting them head-on with vulnerability and candor. Her writing is both lyrical and visceral, capturing the tumultuous emotions that accompany mental illness with striking clarity.
The distinctive combination of prose and poetry is one of the other reasons why this combination of essays stands out for me. Ikpi adds depth and richness to her storyline throughout the book by sprinkling it with evocative poetry that acts as emotional touchstones. These essays offer pauses for reflection and introspection, enabling readers to savor the emotional and personal resonance of Ikpi's words.
In “I’m Telling The Truth But I’m Lying,” Ikpi dispels misconceptions and social stigmas related to mental illness. She confronts common misunderstandings and prejudices that are frequently associated with illnesses like bipolar disorder, highlighting the effects these false beliefs have on people in real life as well as their loved ones. Ikpi humanizes the frequently misunderstood subject of mental illness by revealing her personal experiences, which helps us as readers feel more empathy and understanding.
The book explores her struggles with mental health as well as more general issues of race, identity, and belonging. Ikpi, a Nigerian immigrant growing up in the United States, grapples with the complexities of navigating multiple cultural and social identities. She provides perception into the connections between race, mental health, and personal identity as she openly explores how discrimination and cultural expectations have influenced her sense of self.
The essays in this book are the ultimate testament to the human spirit's tenacity. Despite the difficulties and setbacks she encounters, Ikpi shows herself to be a strong voice of courage, strength, and optimism. Her experience reminds us as readers that we are not alone in our quest for self-discovery and healing, serving as a beacon of hope for those battling their mental health struggles.
"I'm Telling the Truth, But I'm Lying" is a remarkable work that surpasses the confines of a standard memoir. Bassey Ikpi's unflinching honesty, exquisite style, and profound insights make this book a must-read for anybody seeking a deeper understanding of mental health, identity, and the resiliency of the human spirit.
Overall, it is a deeply personal, raw collection of MUST READ essays. I give this book 4 stars!