Despite the varying myths that rape culture perpetuates, there is no “classic” rape, no “perfect” victim. Every rape is different and every victim handles his/her situation differently. Some fight their attackers, while others — for assorted and valid reasons — do not. Some report their rapes, while others — myself included — never do.

Nothing quite captures the complexities and diversity of rape like Trigger Warning: Breakfast. Published on The Nib by an anonymous author, this comic powerfully illustrates one woman’s experience with rape and how she chose to deal with it in the immediate aftermath.

It is straightforward, painful, honest and indicative of how every rape elicits a unique response. After all, rape is by no means “normal,” and there is no appropriate or “normal” response to it. There is no one rape victim narrative.

There is more to the comic, and I encourage you to peep it in its entirety. It should be required reading — for rape apologists, journalists, prosecutors, jurors, campus administrators, men and women, and victim advocates alike.

Categories: Violence

Tags: Rape, Trigger warning