In Ishamael Beah’s memoir, A Long Way Gone, the author’s unwavering will to live and his extraordinary resilience enabled him to endure unimaginable hardships, driven by his fear of death and steadfast optimism. Initially, Ishmael’s determination to survive was bolstered by his fear of death, enabling him to perservere which demonstrates his resilience in the midst of hardship." I did not want to die like this, so I decided to fight harder to stay alive" (p. 120). Despite the perilous situations he faces, his persistence and determination enable him to persevere and functions as the workhorse that propels him forward. This fear not only sustains his mental resilience but also drives his resolve to seek refuge, as observed by his choice to strengthen …show more content…
I was determined to make it to the end of the war alive" (p. 186). Ishmael’s determination to persist is driven by his fear of mortality. Despite the slim probability of survival, his fear of mortality compelled him to move forward. This forces him out of complacency and acceptance which drives him toward safety. This motivation ultimately enabled him to endure the hazardous conflicts he encounters throughout the story. Similarly, Ishmael’s optimism sustained his resilience and persistence throughout the perilous journey to safety."I had hope, I believed that I would survive, but more than that, I wanted to live" (p. 107). Ishmael’s optimism and faith in his ability to survive fueled his determination to persevere and stay alive. This displays that he wasn’t willing to falter despite the seemingly insurmountable challenges he faces. His positive attitude enabled him to persevere and allowed him to progress towards safety. Ishmael’s optimistic outlook sustained his determination despite the arduous and prolonged journey he undertook. "I knew that I was not alone. Even when I was, I felt that I was with my family and those who had died in the