“Victim 69” by Rasool Darweesh, translated by Dr. Mohammed A. Alkhozai, is a gripping and experimental novel that blurs the lines between fiction, autobiography, and literary critique. The story unfolds through multiple narrative layers as Warsaw, the protagonist, collaborates with a critic named Sa'ad to craft her life story into a novel. What begins as an exercise in creative writing evolves into a profound exploration of identity, memory, and the power dynamics of storytelling. Through fragmented timelines, vivid descriptions, and introspective dialogues, Darweesh invites readers into a labyrinthine world where reality and imagination intertwine. This thought-provoking work challenges conventional narrative structures and offers a raw, unfiltered look at the human condition—capturing pain, resilience, and the pursuit of truth.
