ΠΟΥ ΖΕΙ Ο ΛΥΚΟΣ; / WHERE THE WOLF LIVES?
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Autor:
RHEA GALANAKI
Country:
Greece (GR)
Book Theme:
Contemporary writers of your country
Publisher:
AGRA & KASTANIOTIS
Publishing Year:
1986
Rhea Galanaki, born in 1947 in Heraklion, Crete, is a prominent contemporary Greek author. She studied History and Archaeology at the University of Athens. Galanaki’s literary career began in the 1970s with poetry, but she gained widespread recognition for her novels, which often blend historical events with fictional narratives. Notable works include “The Life of Ismail Ferik Pasha” and “Eleni, or Nobody.” Her writing delves into themes of identity, history, and gender, earning her several awards, including the Nikos Kazantzakis Prize. Galanaki remains a vital figure in modern Greek literature, contributing essays and stories that resonate with contemporary issues.
National Award for Children’s and Young People’s
Abstract
“Where the Wolf Lives” by Rhea Galanaki is a profound and evocative exploration of identity, displacement, and the human spirit set against the dramatic backdrop of 20th-century Greece. The novel centers around Melpo, a woman whose life is marked by the upheavals and dislocations of her homeland. As Greece undergoes significant historical and political changes, Melpo’s personal journey mirrors the nation’s struggles.
The narrative delves into Melpo’s early years, marked by the traditions and challenges of rural Greek life. Her story is one of exile and return, as she leaves her homeland and later attempts to reconnect with her roots. Through Melpo’s experiences, Galanaki captures the essence of what it means to search for a place to call home, both physically and emotionally.
Galanaki’s writing is rich with historical context, offering readers insight into the cultural and political landscape of Greece during a time of significant change. The novel explores themes of belonging, identity, and the longing for connection, all while painting a vivid picture of Greek life and traditions.
“Where the Wolf Lives” is not just a personal story; it is a narrative that resonates with the broader human experience of displacement and the quest for identity. Galanaki’s masterful storytelling weaves together the threads of individual and collective histories, creating a tapestry that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.
Melpo’s journey is one of resilience and self-discovery, as she navigates the challenges of her past and present. Galanaki’s portrayal of her protagonist is nuanced and empathetic, allowing readers to deeply connect with her struggles and triumphs.
In essence, “Where the Wolf Lives” is a powerful testament to the enduring human spirit and the complex interplay between personal and national identities. Galanaki’s eloquent prose and richly detailed narrative make this novel a compelling and thought-provoking read, offering a window into the soul of Greece and the universal quest for belonging and identity.
