New Novel Explores Trauma of Gaza Combat and Oct. 7
Translated & summarized from Calcalist by baba
Ido Shir-Vaknin's new novel, "Everything That Moves Must Die," explores the trauma of combat and the October 7th attacks through the story of a reservist named Rosh. The book, partly inspired by Shir-Vaknin's own military service, uses a journal format to depict Rosh's dissociation and struggle to reintegrate into civilian life. Shir-Vaknin discusses the psychological toll of war, the need for transparency, and the moral complexities of fighting evil without succumbing to it. The novel also questions the concept of lawful warfare and reflects on the search for meaning and answers in difficult times.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Ido Shir-Vaknin's novel "Everything That Moves Must Die" explores the psychological impact of the October 7th attacks and Gaza war.
- The book follows Rosh, a teacher and reservist, who experiences dissociation and detachment after returning from combat.
- Shir-Vaknin, a reservist himself, drew inspiration from Kurt Vonnegut's "Slaughterhouse-Five" for his narrative.
- The novel questions the morality of war, the necessity of revenge, and the personal cost of combat.
- It emphasizes the importance of transparency and conducting warfare "in the light" to avoid becoming evil.
- The author notes a post-October 7th increase in religiosity among youth seeking answers and stability.
Author Ido Shir-Vaknin's debut novel, "Everything That Moves Must Die," delves into the psychological aftermath of the October 7th Hamas attacks and the subsequent war in Gaza. Inspired by his own experiences as a reservist, the book centers on a teacher and reservist named Rosh, who finds himself detached from reality after returning from combat.
The narrative unfolds partly as a journal, with Rosh experiencing dissociation, speaking Arabic, and quoting the Egyptian singer Oum Kalthoum. He describes undergoing medical examinations and experimental brain research, haunted by constant noise. His journey toward recovery begins with an unconventional therapist, Shura, who helps him regain his language through writing.
Shir-Vaknin, who is currently serving in the reserves protecting Gaza border communities, began writing the novel with notes jotted down between artillery shells. He found inspiration in Kurt Vonnegut's "Slaughterhouse-Five," seeing Vonnegut's character Billy Pilgrim as a companion during his own wartime experiences. "I had the privilege of walking with Billy Pilgrim in Gaza," Shir-Vaknin stated, explaining that Vonnegut's work helped him process the war.
The author reflects on the "butcher's work" of war, noting the heavy price paid by those who carry it out and the need for transparency. He describes the disconnect between the horrors of Gaza and everyday life back home, observing those around him "chewing death in small bites." Shir-Vaknin emphasizes the importance of conducting warfare in the light, questioning the necessity of revenge and urging a struggle against evil without becoming evil oneself.
While acknowledging the need to combat Hamas's atrocities, the novel also questions the very concept of lawful warfare, deeming it absurd. Shir-Vaknin draws a parallel to Vonnegut's stance on Nazi actions, highlighting the universal moral compass. The book concludes with a poem reflecting on the necessity and consequences of military actions, using the example of a destroyed lemon grove.
Shir-Vaknin, who grew up in a religious Zionist family in Gush Etzion and now lives in Ramat Gan with his partner and two children, has moved away from religious observance. He teaches Hebrew culture in a Tel Aviv high school, focusing on Jewish sources alongside liberal and humanistic values. He notes a resurgence of religiosity among young people post-October 7th, seeing it as a response to a need for answers and a way to navigate complex reality, while emphasizing the importance of offering alternative, ethically sound frameworks.