Apeirogon: A Novel by Colum McCann is an absorbing and insightful exploration of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, powerfully rendered through the lens of a deeply personal story. In the book, two fathers—Israeli Rami Elhanan and Palestinian Bassam Aramin—forge a deep, unlikely friendship as a result of their shared tragedy: both having suffered the fatal loss of a daughter to the crossfire of the ongoing conflict.
McCann imaginatively weaves together the stories of Elhanan and Aramin in an intricate, kaleidoscopic narrative that takes the reader on a journey from the ancient city of Jerusalem to the modern, and sometimes violent, world of the West Bank and Gaza. He deftly traces the history of the region and shows us an unflinching portrait of life under occupation and amidst conflict, yet also offers moments that reverberate with compassion and hope.
At the heart of the novel is the story of two fathers, who find themselves united in grief, yet seeking different paths towards peace. Despite being worlds apart both geographically and ideologically, Elhanan and Aramin manage to form a powerful bond of solidarity, which they share not only with each other, but with other men and women in their position. Through the two men’s experiences, we are privy to deeper truths about how individuals are affected by violence and war, and how powerful, even defining, friendship and empathy can be.
Apeirogon intersects multiple themes, images, and voices throughout its narrative. Through the use of tangible elements from the everyday life of its protagonists, McCann conveys a strong sense of place and time. Intermingled throughout the narrative are reflections on the situation of Palestinians living in Israel, as well as reflections on the social and familial dynamics of Elhanan and Aramin’s families—all of which paint an in-depth portrait of a deeply complex region and its people.
In the end, Apeirogon is a starkly honest yet ultimately hopeful book. Through the story of Elhanan and Aramin, McCann reminds us of the universality of the tragedy of violence and war, and the absolute need for peace and reconciliation. Powerful, emotionally charged, and thought-provoking, Apeirogon is an unbelievably moving story of friendship and courage in the face of extreme adversity. It is an unmissable piece of contemporary literature that will stay with you long after you've finished reading.
