The Exile and the Mapmaker

In this poignant tale, Theo searches for lost love amidst Alzheimer's, while his estranged daughter grapples with the past and a refugee becomes his unexpected friend.

In The Exile and the Mapmaker, Theo, an aging Parisian cartographer, finds himself in a race against time as he grapples with the onset of Alzheimer's disease. His memories of a once-passionate love are fading, and he is determined to locate the woman who meant everything to him before his mind slips away completely. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of Paris, where the streets and landmarks are both familiar and foreign to him, reflecting his internal struggle. As Theo's mind deteriorates, the urgency of his quest grows, revealing the depths of his longing and regret.

Elise, his estranged daughter, moves back into his life to provide care, but their relationship is fraught with tension. Haunted by the tragic loss of her mother, Elise harbors resentment towards Theo, blaming him for the past. The forced intimacy of their situation forces them to confront their shared history, filled with pain and unspoken words. Through their interactions, the complexities of familial love and forgiveness come to the forefront, illustrating how the bonds of family can both heal and wound.

Adding another layer to this poignant tale is Nebay, an Eritrean refugee who becomes Theo’s carer and unexpected friend. Living in the shadows due to his illegal status, Nebay's presence introduces themes of secrecy, survival, and the quest for belonging. As their lives intertwine, The Exile and the Mapmaker emerges as a powerful exploration of memory, identity, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.