Livia Bitton-Jackson

Trains to Treblinka

Fiction

“I stare directly ahead as I take off my clothes. I am afraid. By not looking at anyone I hope no one will see me. I hesitate before removing my bra. I decide to leave my bra on. Just then a shot rings out. The charge is ear-shattering. Some women begin to scream. Others weep. I quickly take my bra off… A burden was lifted. The burden of individuality. Of associations. Of identity. Of the recent past.”