Myriam Gurba Explores Healing Through Plants in ‘Poppy State’

Author Myriam Gurba is set to release her latest book, “Poppy State: A Labyrinth of Plants and a Story of Beginnings,” on October 21. The book intertwines her personal journey with California’s botanical history, reflecting on how nurturing plants has played a crucial role in her healing process. Just a day after submitting the final draft, Gurba faced an evacuation due to the devastating Eaton Fire in southern California, which threatened her community of Altadena and Pasadena. Although she did not lose her home, the fire left her heartbroken, particularly because the forest had been a major source of inspiration for her writing.

Gurba’s manuscript delves into the effects of trauma and recovery, specifically focusing on her experiences with partner violence. She emphasizes the importance of plants in her life, stating, “

I felt like I had been broken into pieces. The forest helped me put myself back together.

” During her evacuation, she managed to take with her a jar of seeds she had foraged, symbolizing her connection to nature amidst chaos.

Structured like a labyrinth, “Poppy State” invites readers to explore a rich tapestry of botany, childhood memories, and California history. Gurba recalls how her father’s love for gardening profoundly influenced her relationship with plants. “It had been a very long time since I had woken up eager to face the day,” she reflected. “Once I began bringing plants into my home, that changed.”

In her writing, Gurba combines her passion for plants with her literary evolution. Initially focused on fiction, she transitioned to nonfiction to address personal traumas more directly. Inspired by writers like Zora Neale Hurston and Ralph Ellison, she found that humor could play an essential role in discussing serious subjects. “I argue that it’s absolutely necessary for survivors of trauma to be able to laugh at the people who hurt us,” she explained, noting that her previous works, including the memoir “Mean” and the essay collection “Creep,” have explored these themes.

As she reflects on the structure of “Poppy State,” Gurba draws parallels between her writing process and the concept of puzzles. Her fascination with labyrinths stems not only from her love of challenges but also from the comfort they provide. “I wanted to take the idea of the puzzle and apply it to prose,” she said, attributing inspiration to the works of authors like Jorge Luis Borges and Frank L. Baum.

The book also includes historical anecdotes that challenge prevailing narratives about California’s Indigenous populations. Gurba aims to shed light on the rich history of resistance among California’s Indigenous peoples, countering the myth that the region was sparsely populated at the time of European settlement. “The population was extremely high and there was incredible resistance,” she asserts.

Her father’s influence is palpable throughout the book. Gurba recalls how, at the age of ten, she and her siblings helped him transform their overgrown property by removing invasive species and planting native California flora. These formative experiences shaped her understanding of the natural world and her connection to the land. “He is most himself when he’s in dirt,” she noted, highlighting how gardening became a family affair that forged lasting memories.

Incorporating photos throughout the text adds a visual dimension to her narrative. Gurba deliberately selected images that evoke a sense of nostalgia and connection with her ancestors. “I want the reader to see them, to give the impression they are walking through the labyrinth with you,” she explained.

The preamble of “Poppy State” invites readers to engage with the book in a unique way. Gurba playfully encourages them to skip the author’s note, offering a metaphorical map to navigate the labyrinth she has created. This interactive approach reflects her desire to connect with readers on multiple levels.

As “Poppy State” prepares for its release, Gurba’s exploration of healing, nature, and personal history promises to resonate with many. Her journey showcases the profound impact that plants and the natural world can have on our lives, especially in times of crisis.