Gate of the Sun

Recently i wrote a paper assessing specific themes from Elias Khoury's novel entitled Gate of the Sun. One theme that i touched on that i would just like to reiterate in this blog is the correllation between memory and storytelling. It is common for one to spin lore as a way of discussing themes and events. Commonly, stories evolve from the past that are told and retold on so many occasions that at points it seems impossible to discern reality and fact from embellishment and fiction.

One of the specific reasons that i chose to speak out on this topic is because there are so many personal stories that are available for us, the public to read on the current Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It is commonly known and publicly stated that the United States is allies with Israel and supports their efforts for peace. While Israel uses the media here in America to paint a portrait depicting them as the victim, recently i have been exposed to numerous pro-Palestinian themed literature that speaks to the opposite of what Americans are used to being preached. I personally feel that we have been programmed, OK maybe not programmed but swayed towards an unfounded bias towards Israel, something more of us should question. Usually i look at all the evidence before i make a decision but now when I'm examining the Israel-Palestine conflict i find myself in need for more information because of all the propaganda that is being perpetrated by both sides. Just think...how many videos have you seen in the the last 6 months that take firm stances and paint the other side as the enemy? i cant count that high.