Blackbodying

by Dimitri Nasrallah

Blackbodying recounts the first-hand exile stories of two Lebanese citizens and their routes to Canada. Both have been forced to leave their homeland as a result of civil war, but only the first is afforded the opportunities the second so badly wants. His exile, at a very young age, has afforded him an international childhood, an American education, cultural affluence, and the ability to assimilate into almost any society he enters. The second, a destitute, beyond-his-prime optimist named Sameer Gerdak, is afforded nothing of the kind. To think that an Arab foreigner without North American credentials can penetrate this prosperous Canadian reality is a well-worn fiction. So Sameer Gerdak believes. The two protagonists' paths intersect only slightly, but the result of their meeting is at once profound and chilling. Blackbodying speaks to the most personal ramifications of civil war, telling the stories of those who can't shake the idea that something better must exist. Surrounded by bed-wetters, child actors, bisexual dads, dead horses, independent film-makers, prostitutes, taxi drivers, and one of the most indelible and lecherous villains in recent memory, John Spier, a low-level pimp with no hands, Sameer Gerdak and his youthful, anonymous counterpart weave a portrait of humanity that simultaneously attests to our best and worst intentions.

224 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2004

Reviews

[Daniel Grenier · Rating 4 out of 5]

C’est plus deux novellas liées symboliquement qu’un véritable roman. Il y a un petit côté très Paul Auster (époque New York Trilogy) que Nasrallah n’a jamais réexploité ensuite: genre, la deuxième partie est le livre du narrateur de la première. Je ne sais pas si j’aurais aimé ça autant si je ne l’avais pas lu avant d’avoir lu le reste de son travail, sans parler du fait de l’avoir traduit vers le français. Mais tout était tellement déjà là, dans le rapport ambigu à l’immigration, le rapport conflictuel avec les parents, leur absence obsédante comme leur présence envahissante. Tout y est, pas seulement en germe, mais en substance. Peut-être faudrait-il toujours fonctionner comme ça: attendre vingt ans avant de lire les premiers romans, comme si leur place réelle n’était pas au début.

[Pooria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book one's eloquent and evocative prose, adorned with exquisite descriptions and poignant imagery, effortlessly drew me into a mesmerizing world. However, as the narrative unfolded into book two, a more Kafkaesque tone emerged, accompanied by a plethora of literary devices that, while occasionally feeling somewhat excessive, ultimately served the overarching purpose of the book. The characters, though not reaching the pinnacle of complexity, exhibited authenticity. The consistently engaging writing style contributed to a compelling and immersive reading experience. The exploration of profound themes throughout the narrative added a layer of depth, making it a highly impactful and thought-provoking literary endeavor. Despite its imperfections, this novel offers a rewarding blend of styles, prompting reflection and ensuring a memorable reading experience for those who appreciate intricate storytelling.