An ‘Odyssey,’ From a Dog’s Perspective

In this issue, readers are presented with two distinct narratives exploring themes of displacement and the longing for home. The first story, set in an unnamed Asian country, follows the journey of Etna, a military dog trained to detect bombs and engage in combat. As Etna navigates the aftermath of a devastating four-year war, he is left to find his way back to the coast—the only place he recognizes as home.

The ruins of buildings, perpetual starvation, and the absence of Western medical aid paint a bleak picture of the landscape Etna encounters. Narrated by Etna with a sparse yet emotionally resonant style, the story delves into the profound impact of trauma and displacement. The second tale takes readers to modern-day Nigeria, where Frank Whyte, a Black Nigerian man, suddenly finds himself transformed into a piebald creature – Caucasian on the surface but still retaining his original black skin.

Upon waking up as Frank, the protagonist embarks on a bizarre and satirical journey through Amsterdam, Oslo, and Milan. Moving from Lagos to Abuja, Nigeria's capital city, Frank builds wealth and embarks on a trip to Europe. While Europe initially provides a respite from his unique identity, he soon encounters racial prejudices and biases.

Frank's experiences highlight the stark contrast between his privileged journey and the struggles faced by African migrants attempting to cross the Mediterranean or seek refuge in European countries. Through these two contrasting stories, the author sheds light on the universal and often overlooked emotions experienced by individuals caught in the midst of war, loss, and identity crises.

The narratives serve as a poignant reminder that even centuries later, the genre of great conflict continues to captivate and resonate with readers.