The art of storytelling is what breaks the silence of an individual or a collective experience as we attempt to bring order and understanding to the constant flux of life. Stories are by their very nature cathartic as they emotionally and intellectually attempt to release us from the potential paralysis of the past. This idea is explored in the novel "Ports of Call" by Amin Maalouf as Ossyane Ketabdar's narrative deconstructs both his public persona as a member of resistance during World War 2, his rebellion against the future is father wanted for him and his relationship with Clara. …
