Loss of innocence
A prominent theme in Boy, Everywhere is the loss of innocence. When the novel begins, Sami is leading a typical teenage life, occupied with video games, soccer, and time with friends. However, the sudden eruption of violence in his city and the subsequent journey as a refugee force him to face situations that strip away his innocence and compel him to mature quickly.
The theme of lost innocence is a poignant reflection of the harsh reality child refugees face as war and conflict rob them of their childhood. Sami's struggles highlight the personal costs of war, particularly for young people forced to confront realities far beyond their years.
Through the exploration of these themes, A. M. Dassu provides a poignant portrayal of the refugee experience, raising awareness about the Syrian conflict's impact on individuals and families. The novel encourages empathy and understanding of the experiences of refugees, adding a human face to the often-abstract concept of global conflict.
Resilience in the face of adversity
One of the key themes of Boy, Everywhere is resilience in the face of adversity. Sami and his family are forced to leave behind their comfortable life in Damascus and endure harrowing experiences as they navigate to safety in the United Kingdom. They face numerous dangers and hardships throughout their journey, from the terrifying bomb blast in their hometown to treacherous border crossings, harsh conditions in refugee camps, and an unforgiving journey across the Mediterranean Sea.
Despite these trials, the family remains resilient, holding on to their love for each other and their hope for a better future. This theme is evident in the characters' determination to survive and their ability to adapt to new and challenging circumstances. Through Sami's perspective, the author illuminates the strength and tenacity of refugees, effectively humanizing their experiences and struggles.
Cultural identity
Another major theme in Boy Everywhere is cultural identity and assimilation. As Sami and his family migrate to the United Kingdom, they find themselves in a culture vastly different from their own. They are forced to navigate a new language, different societal norms, and prejudices against refugees.
Throughout the novel, Sami grapples with his cultural identity. He longs for his familiar life in Syria, but he also understands the need to adapt to his new environment in the UK. This theme is illustrated through his experiences at school, where he faces difficulties fitting in, and at home, where his family tries to maintain their Syrian traditions while adjusting to a new way of life.
The theme of cultural identity and assimilation is important as it illuminates the struggles faced by refugees, not just in their journey to find safety but also in their attempts to build a new life in a foreign land. Dassu effectively portrays the challenge of maintaining one's cultural identity in the face of the pressures to assimilate into a new society. It underscores the complexity of the refugee experience beyond the physical journey to a new life.
