Western Somali Liberation Front

The Western Somali Liberation Front symbolizes sociopolitical strife and duty. As a young adult, Askar struggles with the question of whether he should join the fight to liberate Ogaden or if he should attend university and use his education for the cause. He feels even more connected to the WSLF because his father died as a soldier for the movement.

Maps

Maps symbolize Askar’s desire to be a part of something greater than himself. He collects, studies, and draws maps as a way of examining his place in the world. These activities also express his goal of moving beyond his origins.

Dreams

Askar’s dreams symbolize his evolving and sometimes enigmatic psychology. Askar’s cryptic dreams represent his specific internal struggles, such as his struggle to understand the concepts of death and identity.

University

The university symbolizes the necessity of education but...