Introduction
Sahar Delijani invites readers to learn about Iran’s history, offering a glimpse into the profound impact of the 1988 political oppression. The book unveils the human toll of mass executions involving thousands of dissidents and the challenges political prisoners face post-release. Delijani’s birth in Tehran’s Evin Prison during her parents’ detainment as political activists adds a personal layer to the narrative.
Delijani paints a picture of Iranian resistance, love, and sacrifice through a web of interconnected stories. She delves into the far-reaching consequences of this multi-generational tragedy, capturing the experiences of those directly affected by the executions and their descendants.
Thus, the book unfolds through a narrative woven together by events and dates, comprehensively exploring this complex history.
1983 Evin Prison, Tehran
In this segment, we delve into Azar’s life as a pregnant political prisoner, facing childbirth challenges and enduring prison life with her baby. Azar’s courage during delivery struck me, contrasting with the guards, doctors, and nurses’ lack of humanity and empathy. Yet, one nurse stood out, offering kindness, support during labor, and encouraging news about her daughter.
It prompts me to ponder how empathy can fade in wartime. It’s astonishing how individuals can maintain a cold demeanor in dire circumstances, displaying inhumane behaviors. Conversely, we witness the joy a baby brings, even within prison walls. Despite their circumstances, solidarity blooms among the inmates, rallying around the new mother.
So, it raises several questions:
Could infusing more hope into prisons help those who’ve erred or committed crimes to reflect and adopt a new perspective?
Could some individuals need to rediscover faith in themselves to transform their lives?
To what extent does the prison system hinder rather than aid recovery, negatively impacting individuals?
1987 Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran
We are introduced to Leila, who resides with her parents and cares for her three nephews: Omid, Sara, and Forugh. The ramifications of oppression compel her to relinquish her dreams, dedicating herself to her nephews while her sisters are imprisoned. Her profound love and sense of responsibility drive her actions. She’s also reluctant to leave the children with their grandparents, recognizing their diminished energy. Her love leads her to sacrifice her dreams and her love for Ahmad.
Leila harbors a deep affection for Ahmad but chooses not to build a life with him and departs Iran to stay with her family. Parting from him is agonizing, but she believes it’s the right choice. On that very night, a bombing shakes the city, compelling Leila and her family to seek refuge in the countryside. Their emotions and the uncertainty surrounding their home’s fate upon their return are striking.
1983-1988 Komiteh Moshtarak Detention Center, Evin Prison, Tehran
The book unfolds Amir’s story as a political prisoner. It delves into his thoughts, emotions, and the continuous ordeal of torture, interrogation, and mistreatment.
Amid his suffering, Amir weakens physically, mentally, and emotionally. Married to pregnant Maryam, he yearns to meet his child. Despite his prison ordeals, Amir finally gets to hold his daughter.
This situation raises questions about whether letting him see his daughter occasionally reflects compassion or cruelty. It’s perplexing because, on one hand, it fulfills his dream. Yet, it carries a sense of cruelty, a reminder of his separation from his family due to his political ideals and fight. It leaves me pondering the true intentions behind such a concession for a prisoner.
2008 Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran
This chapter recounts Forugh’s visit to Mama Zinat, reuniting her with childhood friend Dante after a 12-year separation. Her childhood memories flooded Forugh’s mind upon arriving at her grandmother’s home.
Additionally, we gain insight into the emotions and thoughts of these young adults. They share the feelings that arose while growing up without their mothers and the fear they experienced when their mothers returned years later to reclaim them. It vividly portrays Forugh and Dante’s pain when leaving Mama Zinat and Khaleb Leila to join a woman they called “mother” but didn’t recognize at all.
I found this section particularly moving because it highlights children’s experiences amid war in Iran and any region affected by religious or political conflicts. It underscores the countless human stories behind each event, with the book offering a glimpse into the broader narrative of what occurred in Iran during that time.
1983-2009 Tehran – Turin
Maryam, a widow who raised her daughter alone, struggled to heal from the family tragedy. When Sheida turned 17, Maryam secured an Italian visa, hoping distance from Iran would bring peace and happiness.
After four years, Maryam returned to Iran, leaving her daughter in Italy, where she had a stable job.
While Sheida researched Iran’s 1988 political prisoners one night, she uncovered a long-hidden secret. Indeed, Maryam’s reluctance to reveal her husband’s death circumstances earlier surprised me. What had made her so afraid of Sheida discovering the truth?
This story reveals a mother’s enduring pain over her husband’s death, especially the circumstances. What can we tell about Maryam’s actions?
Ultimately, Sheida comprehends why her mother concealed the truth about her father. I believe Maryam hid it not just for her daughter but also to shield herself from the harsh reality and the reasons behind her husband’s demise.
2010 Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran
The tale unfolds at Sara’s house as Donya recounts her love story with Omid. She resides in the United States, and after a 6-year gap, they reunite, only for Donya to discover Omid’s marriage to Elnaz.
When Omid and Donya dated, they planned to live in Iran and continue their parents’ legacy. But, distance and separation grew increasingly challenging for Donya, eventually leading to the relationship’s demise.
During her reunion with Omid, Donya clings to the hope of rekindling their past love. Yet, in the end, she realizes that their idyllic love story belongs solely to the past, and she isn’t prepared to fight for the relationship. The truth dawns upon her that distance was merely an excuse to bring their love story to an end.
2011 Turin, Italy
This chapter felt somewhat dull, yet I acknowledge the contrast it brings when depicting the love between two individuals who uncover challenging aspects of their pasts and families. They come to understand that their families align with opposing sides.
I appreciate how Neda reflects on herself while Reza shares his father’s story. Her emotions emerge as she grapples with the revelation that Reza’s father played a pivotal role in founding the Revolutionary Guard movement.
Conclusion
The book’s stories testify to the human spirit’s enduring strength and illuminate silenced histories. It underscores that hope and resilience can triumph even in the bleakest times.
Perhaps, it illustrates how war exposes people to severe psychological stress and life-threatening situations, leading to varied psychological reactions and behaviors.
As a Latina, I found the book appealing because I needed to learn more about Iran’s history. Exploring literature from different continents and cultures intrigued me. The unique yet captivating narrative style caught my interest. I’ve read a few books by Asian authors and enjoyed them, and I’m just beginning to discover this region and its literature. I highly recommend exploring it. You can find some reviews of the ones I’ve read here.
