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Theme Of Art And Culture In Steven Galloway

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by Steven Galloway is written in a manner that displays the message of art and culture being the core of civilization. The art aspect includes the cellist and other related beauties. The culture includes the demolishing of existing culture during the war in the novel. The author makes the intent of his novel known by the way he writes, mainly in the amount of emotion he adds to the story.
One of the most noticeable displays of emotion in the novel is the role of the cellist who embodies art itself. Art is something that communicates a deep message in this story. The cellist and his melodies represent peace throughout all the war and chaos. His music evokes emotions and becomes an eye-opener for the citizens of Sarajevo while they survive through war. This is evident in the moment when Arrow hears the cellist playing in the street for the last time. "Her eyes [water]" as the "notes [ascend] the scale" (pg. 255). …show more content…

From the beginning of the story to the end, there are many displays of the existing culture in Sarajevo being destroyed. This includes the buildings, traditions, and the citizens' way of living. The emotions involved with culture can be seen in Dragan's ability to shut off his emotions when doing anything. Whenever he is trying to do normal things such as crossing the streets he fears he will die, even "[wondering] if he's been shot" (pg. 91). Of course this occurred after Dragan was shot at while crossing the street. One of his greatest fears is dying a slow painful death, which could potentially take place at that moment. Although he tries to block out any feelings, he senses such an overwhelming fear. This is the reality of how the culture of Sarajevo slowly chips away. The happiness, memories, buildings, and most importantly, the citizens' daily lives are altered. The transformation of Dragan's emotionless face into a worried one shows how raw and trusting his feelings

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