Elif Shafak’s The Island of Missing Trees (Shortlisted for the Women’s Prize for Fiction 2022) is a hauntingly beautiful novel that intertwines history, memory, and nature to tell a story of forbidden love and intergenerational trauma. Set against the backdrop of Cyprus’s turbulent past, this book offers a unique perspective on the island’s history, making it a standout among books set in Cyprus.
A Love Story Rooted in Conflict
At the heart of the novel is the poignant love story between Defne, a Turkish Cypriot, and Kostas, a Greek Cypriot. Their relationship blossoms in the 1970s, a time when Cyprus was rife with political unrest and division. Their secret meetings take place under the canopy of a fig tree in a tavern. The tree is a silent witness to their forbidden love. This fig tree, later uprooted and transplanted to London, becomes a central character in its own right, narrating parts of the story and symbolising the resilience of nature amidst human conflict.
The Fig Tree: Nature as a Narrator
One of the most distinctive features of this novel is the anthropomorphised fig tree that serves as a narrator. Through its perspective, readers gain insights into the natural world’s response to human actions. The tree’s reflections add a layer of depth to the narrative, emphasising themes of displacement, memory, and the interconnectedness of all living beings.
Exploring the Legacy of Cyprus
Shafak masterfully weaves the personal and political, using the characters’ experiences to shed light on Cyprus’s complex history. The novel delves into the island’s past, the inter-communal violence between Greek and Turkish Cypriots, and the lasting impact of these events on subsequent generations. For readers seeking books about Cypriot history or novels set in Cyprus, this book offers a deeply human perspective.
Intergenerational Trauma and Healing
The narrative extends beyond Defne and Kostas, exploring the life of their daughter, Ada, in London. Ada’s journey of self-discovery and her quest to understand her heritage highlight the lingering effects of her parents’ past. The novel poignantly portrays how trauma can be inherited. It addresses the importance of confronting and understanding one’s history to achieve healing.
A Lyrical and Evocative Prose
Shafak’s writing is both lyrical and evocative, painting vivid images of Cyprus’s landscapes and the emotional landscapes of her characters. Her prose captures the beauty of the natural world and the complexities of human emotions. A compelling read that delves into themes of love, loss, and identity.
Final Thoughts
The Island of Missing Trees is more than just a love story. It’s a meditation on memory, identity, and the enduring scars of conflict. Through its unique narrative structure and rich content, it stands out as a significant contribution to literature about Cyprus. Whether you’re interested in historical fiction, stories of intergenerational trauma, or novels that give voice to nature, this book guarantees a profound and moving experience.
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Looking for more literary journeys? Explore my curated list of books set in Cyprus and other destinations to inspire your next read.
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