Triangle (novel)

Triangle is a 2003 historical fiction novel written by Katharine Weber. The novel tells the interwoven stories of several characters connected to the 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in New York City.

The primary narrative revolves around Ruth Steiner, an elderly woman who claims to be the last living survivor of the fire. A young graduate student, Rebecca Solnit, is hired to assist Ruth in writing her memoirs. As Rebecca delves deeper into Ruth's recollections, she uncovers inconsistencies and begins to question the veracity of Ruth's account and the true nature of her involvement in the tragic event.

The novel explores themes of memory, truth, identity, historical interpretation, and the enduring legacy of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire. It examines the complexities of survivor narratives and the ethical responsibilities of historians and those who interpret the past. The story also incorporates historical details about the working conditions and social context of immigrant laborers in early 20th-century New York City.