Nationalism, Reproduction, and Hybridity in Octavia E. Butler's "Bloodchild"

Although Elyce Rae Helford has offered the best sustained analysis of the short story, "Bloodchild," as a metaphor for slavery, Butler has repeatedly denied that her story is about slavery. I find Helfor's reading, although brilliant, problematic, especially in light of the love feelings between the protagonists. Butler’s story, in her own words, is several things, among which her “pregnant man story.” The theme of reproduction - a cornerstone in feminist sf - should not only be seen as a way to reconsider gender relations, but as a way to explore the hybridization of different cultures and the power inequality that informs relations.