Abdullah Yousef’s “Blood of the Levant” is a shining gem in the realm of Islamicate fiction, destined to be a cherished masterpiece. The first instalment of a captivating tetralogy, this novel lays the groundwork for a complex narrative set in a tumultuous world where the empires of Europe and the Russian Tsardom wage a bitter war, eerily reminiscent of contemporary geopolitical conflicts where the Levant serves as a battleground for proxy wars between greater powers. The narrative takes a thrilling turn when a new material, Ichor, is discovered years after the long war’s onset, much like the game-changing impact of gunpowder in the 9th century.
At the heart of “Blood of the Levant” lies the poignant journey of Omar, a gifted but conflicted young boy hailing from the Syrian village of Deir Ezzor. Despite the harrowing backdrop of conflict, the narrative captures the innocence of childhood, as Omar and his friends engage in playful activities like speculating about dragons and participating in snowball fights. Yousef imbues the story with profound moral lessons, exploring themes of divine will and the response of believers to the so-called ‘problem of evil’ in a visceral and deeply resonant manner.
Omar, like countless young boys growing up in the midst of a warzone, harbours dreams of a liberatory nature. His heart’s desire is to become a Knight, a dream that was ignited by his mother’s loving bedtime stories. As she read to him from the Quran, she also shared tales from a book titled ‘Knights of Europa.’ These stories of noble knights and chivalrous valour have intertwined with the values instilled in him through his faith, creating a powerful aspiration within him to bring honour and justice to his turbulent world. However, his dream extends beyond the battlefield, as Omar longs to explore the world, including sights he has only heard of, like the vast expanse of the ocean. He envisions himself as a modern-day hero, not just for his war-torn homeland but also as an adventurer eager to see the world’s beauty.
Omar discovers that he possesses supernatural abilities, a revelation that comes shortly before a series of disastrous events. These unexpected powers, unlike anything he had imagined, led him down a path that is a semi-inversion of his cherished dreams. Instead of growing older and fulfilling his childhood, he found himself thrust into a world where his extraordinary abilities became a tool for vengeance. The world he had longed to explore, with its oceans and distant lands, took a backseat to the single-minded pursuit of those who had wronged him. Now, his dreams were reshaped by a burning desire for retribution, as he sought to settle the score amid the unfolding calamities that drove him forward.
Omar joined the Royal Legion, an elite infantry force in Europa, at a tender age, a decision that led him to detach from the traditions of his upbringing. Yet, these traditions remained latent within him, their presence occasionally surfacing in subtle ways.
Alongside the story of Omar’s childhood, we get a parallel narrative of his life post-youth. Everything changes for Omar during one fateful battle when he stumbles upon a young girl who seemed so familiar to himself, lost and vulnerable amidst the chaos of war.
In the midst of chaos and violence, the girl’s innocence and her need for protection serve as a catalyst, reigniting a dormant sense of purpose within Omar that he thought lost due to his past. This rekindled purpose unveils the possibility of a more beautiful and meaningful existence amid the harsh backdrop of war. She emerges as a symbol of hope, a guiding light that inspires Omar to rediscover his faith and core values.
However, Omar’s path toward is far from straightforward. He recognises that in this war-torn world, violence remains a necessity. To protect the girl and ensure her survival, he is compelled to raise her to be combat-ready, instilling the skills and strength needed to navigate the perilous environment they find themselves in. It is a difficult choice born out of the harsh realities of their situation, where survival often depends on the ability to defend oneself. This multi-faceted approach to his character and the evolving dynamics between him and the girl adds depth to the narrative, highlighting the realities of a world defined by conflict. The narrative becomes a compelling exploration of the choice’s individuals must make to navigate the complexities of their circumstances.
Abdullah Yousef’s storytelling is a testament to remarkable talent for crafting a vivid and intricate world, deeply immersed in the themes of war, honour, religion, brotherhood, and politics. His narrative forms a literary tapestry interwoven with diverse literary references, enriching the story with depth and complexity. Within this tapestry, Yousef explores the profound complexities of the human experience during times of conflict and uncertainty, inviting readers to reflect on the enduring themes that resonate in our own turbulent world. “Blood of the Levant” is a must-read that resonates deeply with the human spirit, offering both entertainment and profound insight into the human condition.
Waqar posts @Yozora_Glory