Road to Chlifa

Maha and Karim begin their journey, and immediately feel far away from the war-torn city they’ve grown up in. They see themselves as tourists in their own country as they attempt to visit the Jeita cave (although it is inaccessible), and look out at the landscape from vistas.

As they travel towards the mountains, Maha somewhat mysteriously tells Karim, “Nada was right—you really are perfect” (91). Once again, he is reluctant to inquire further, although he is curious. They also discuss religion, and discover that neither prays five times per day. They both agree that being a good person doesn’t depend on strict adherence to external rules. Karim is impressed by Maha’s intelligence.

Finally, the two reach the foot of the mountains. The moon has risen, illuminating the stones that cover the “ghostly moonscape” (95). They also discover ruins; in contrast to the peacefulness and serenity of nature, the ruins are, for Maha, a reminder of past violence and warfare.

Maha reveals her personal philosophy to Karim, telling him that she often feels she could “say one thing,” then “say the opposite and it would be just as true” (98). She is aware of all of life’s contradictions, and this has led to her reputation as troublesome.