Chapters 4 - 9

[Melanie]

How do you think is the story developing? What do you think of the main characters?

[Milena]

So many thoughts :)I'm just going to write in them down in the order I had them as I read.

Minorities: I find it interesting that so far we have only met minorities, outsiders in this city. Different nationalities, the disabled, the addicted, the homeless. Hilmi doesn't show any hesitation in communication, there is a lovely equality there I think.

Child like wonder: There is a child like wonder in Hilmi, he follows his instinct regardless of practicality. Liat describes him as naive and in some ways his wonder and humour do seem childlike. However his belief pays off when he finds his keys. There is something to be said about instinct and faith. I find myself worrying that this gentle goodness will not survive.

The little girl story: The story about 5 year old Liat meeting an Arabic girl at the market: I found this heartbreaking. There is that initial, gorgeous contact between children, friendliness and a a wish to connect. But then the unknown turns into fear, which I think illustrates how politics and prejudice are already in their subconscious.

Language associated with Israel: I realise how little I know about the situation in Israel. I actually feel quite ashamed of it. I needed to look up words and shall now read up on the history and current climate.

The description of the drawing above Hilmi's bed: Oh my goodness, how utterly beautiful. This description really spoke straight to my heart.

Liat's stark contrasting emotions: I've noticed how quickly pure joy and intense wonder turn to dark thoughts and inner questioning. Before they even kiss, Liat has a whole conversation with herself about the Arab/Jewish relationship with the key symbolism -what should be a special, free moment is heavy with history and politics. So sad. I do identify with her constant analysing and over thinking. I think this is part of the attraction to Hilmi, he offers an alternative perspective for her, away from practicality and set ways of seeing her world.

[Deirdre]

I just love the character of Hilmi so much. He just seems so sweet and almost innocent. He reminds me of the students I used to teach.
I think my favorite part was the flashbacks as Liat relays stories of her childhood. I found the stories beautiful and sad at the same time. You get to hear so much of the prejudices that are ingrained in children at a very young age, I guess since birth practically. It is such a contrast of the innocence of childhood and the prejudices that they are taught.
Even this early in the story I am rooting for this couple.

[Candace]

I agree with everything said here. I'm rooting for the couple and Hilmi will have to persist against Liat's more down to earth anxieties. Some part of me will always fall in love with a guy that is creative, head in the clouds, and an artist like Hilmi. :) I am also aware of how little I know about the dynamic between the two of their communities.

[Susan]

Hilmi's constantly losing 'things' especially his apartment keys and the search for the keys instead of getting a locksmith makes me think about displacement. Palestine's displacement??? The search for home with the original key instead of an interloper ( locksmith).
The east river separates the two worlds of Liat (NYC) and Hilmi (Brooklyn). Is the river setting up a division in their relationship?
When Liat goes home with Hilmi, it is her first time in Brooklyn. Is Brooklyn a stand-in for Palestine?
Thoroughly enjoying the book and the journey of Liat and Halmi's budding friendship/relationship.

[Melanie]

Susan wrote: "Hilmi's constantly losing 'things' especially his apartment keys and the search for the keys instead of getting a locksmith makes me think about displacement. Palestine's displacement??? The search..."

Oh Susan, that's such a wonderful thought. This had not occurred to me.

[Melanie]

Ilka wrote: "Oh, Susan, those are some really interesting thoughts about the metaphoric meaning of Hilmi losing things and the river separating the parts of New York the two live in. I hadn't thought about it t..."

Yes, I agree, it is very much between reality and being in a dream....