Is ‘Leave the World Behind’- A Reflection on Escapism and the Parallelisms with Civil War-

Is “Leave the World Behind” and Civil War Connected?

The novel “Leave the World Behind” by Rumaan Alam delves into the complexities of human emotions and societal dynamics, particularly focusing on the impact of a civil war on a family. The question arises: is there a connection between the themes of leaving the world behind and the occurrence of civil war? This article aims to explore this connection and shed light on the intricate relationship between these two themes in the context of the novel.

In “Leave the World Behind,” the protagonist, Aja, is forced to leave her home and flee to an unknown destination due to the escalating civil war in her country. The act of leaving the world behind symbolizes the loss of stability, security, and familiarity that one experiences during times of conflict. This theme is deeply intertwined with the civil war itself, as the war becomes a catalyst for the protagonist’s journey and the unraveling of her life.

The connection between leaving the world behind and civil war can be seen in the psychological impact on the characters. Aja’s decision to leave her world behind is driven by fear, desperation, and the hope for a better future. The civil war has shattered her sense of normalcy, and she is left with no choice but to abandon her past and start anew. This sense of displacement and loss is a common experience for those affected by civil war, as they are often forced to leave their homes, families, and everything they know behind.

Moreover, the act of leaving the world behind in the novel serves as a metaphor for the broader societal impact of civil war. The war has caused widespread destruction, displacement, and loss of life, leaving behind a trail of devastation. The characters in the novel are mere pawns in this larger narrative, their lives intertwined with the chaos and suffering that the civil war brings. By leaving the world behind, the characters symbolize the collective struggle of a society trying to find hope and rebuild amidst the ruins.

Furthermore, the theme of leaving the world behind in “Leave the World Behind” also highlights the search for identity and belonging. As Aja and her family navigate their new reality, they grapple with questions of identity, loyalty, and what it means to belong in a world that has been torn apart by conflict. The civil war serves as a backdrop to this introspective journey, as the characters strive to find their place in a world that has been reshaped by the violence and chaos.

In conclusion, “Leave the World Behind” and civil war are indeed connected through the themes of leaving the world behind. The novel explores the psychological and societal impact of civil war, highlighting the loss of stability, the search for identity, and the collective struggle for hope amidst the ruins. By examining this connection, the novel offers a poignant and thought-provoking commentary on the devastating consequences of conflict and the resilience of the human spirit.