The novel explores the complexities of identity and belonging through the story of a young Arab-American man who returns to his ancestral homeland after years abroad. He struggles with cultural dislocation and the tension between his American upbringing and his Arab heritage. As he navigates this internal conflict, he becomes increasingly disillusioned with the social and economic conditions in the region, leading him to question the notion of "ever to be" - a phrase that reflects the idea that one's identity is forever tied to their past and their cultural roots. Through the protagonist's journey, the novel examines themes of identity, belonging, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world.
By Ameen Rihani · First published 1913 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Philosophical