In "An Untamed State" by Roxane Gay, a harrowing story unfolds about a mother driven to extreme measures due to hunger and desperation. She is faced with the unthinkable choice of sacrificing her children to survive, culminating in a tragedy where she ultimately kills all but one of her offspring. The narrative embodies the depths of human suffering and the lengths one might go to in dire circumstances, reflecting themes of survival and despair.

The mother's final act of taking her own life after committing these atrocities underscores the profound pain and guilt she experiences. The story told by Elsa emphasizes that for some individuals, especially within certain cultural contexts, such dire choices are often a harsh reality. This poignant illustration highlights the struggles that can lead individuals to unimaginable decisions when faced with impossible situations.