Water on Fire

This memoir by Tarek El-Ariss explores his childhood in Lebanon amidst war, detailing themes of trauma, immigration, and resilience throughout his life journey.

In Water on Fire, Tarek El-Ariss offers an evocative and insightful memoir that intricately weaves together his childhood experiences in war-torn Lebanon with the broader themes of trauma and desire. The narrative begins in Beirut, a city ravaged by the Lebanese Civil War, and follows the author's journey through displacement in Europe and Africa. Each location presents its own set of challenges, from the harsh winters of northeastern America to the bustling streets of New York City, especially on the fateful day of September 11. El-Ariss's storytelling captures the essence of loss while also highlighting the resilience that emerges from such experiences.

As he alternates between his perspectives as a child and an adult, Water on Fire delves into the lasting effects of trauma on one's worldview. El-Ariss poignantly illustrates how war shapes our fears and longings, creating a deep connection between personal history and collective memory. This memoir serves as both a historical account and a universal exploration of the human condition, revealing the complexities of conflict and separation.

The narrative also touches on themes of dreams and the subconscious, exploring the author's encounters with monsters and invisible creatures, as well as the elemental forces of water and fire. Through these motifs, El-Ariss connects past and present, illustrating how our memories and experiences are intertwined with the physical world around us. Ultimately, Water on Fire is a powerful reflection on the interplay between trauma, identity, and resilience.