Island of the lost tree by Elif Shafak.

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 Review of Island of the lost tree by Elif Shafak.

Elif Shafaq's Island of the Lost Tree is a deeply moving novel that weaves together themes of love, memory and the natural world set against the backdrop of political and cultural turmoil in Cyprus. Through its unique narrative structure and poignant story, Shafaq explores complex human emotions, racial trauma and the lasting effects of war.

The novel follows two main characters, Kostas, a Greek Cypriot, and Daphne, a Turkish Cypriot, whose love story is set during the conflict between the Greek and Turkish communities in Cyprus in the 1970s. Their romance is complicated not only by cultural differences but also by the political violence that divides their homeland. As the narrative unfolds, Shafaq skilfully peeks into their lives, revealing their struggle to maintain love in the midst of a crumbling world.

One of the most interesting elements of the novel is its inhuman narrator—a fig tree. This tree, the witness to most of the lovers' stories, symbolizes both the resilience of nature and its memories. Trees History, trauma, and how the natural world and human lives are intimately connected. It serves as a powerful metaphor for roots, memory and survival, taking on the ecological and environmental concerns of the story.

Shafaq's prose is lyrical, vivid and full of symbolic imagery. She balances the multi-generational story by moving between past and present and between the perspectives of different characters. This layered approach allows readers to experience the island's history through personal stories while addressing larger themes of exile, identity, and reconciliation.

Although the novel is rich in themes, some readers may find the tree tradition a bit unorthodox. However, it adds depth to the book's exploration of memory and loss, linking it to a broader discourse on displacement and the ongoing effects of war.

In summary, The Island of Missing Trees is a beautifully written, thought-provoking novel that explores themes of love, loss, identity, and ecology. Through its innovative narrative and emotional depth, it provides a powerful commentary on the human experience, the natural world and the scars of history. A must-read for those interested in a blend of historical fiction and literary exploration of personal and collective trauma.

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