Following a Water Droplet Through Time

Elif Shafak’s latest novel, “There Are Rivers in the Sky,” intricately weaves the journey of a single water molecule from the Tigris River to the Thames, spanning from ancient times to the 19th century and into the present day. The narrative highlights water’s omnipresence and indifference to human constructs such as social status and power, setting the stage for a poignant exploration of human history through the lens of this elemental force. The story introduces three main characters, each representing different eras and challenges. Arthur Smyth, a polymath from the slums of 1840s London, becomes captivated by the ancient civilization of Nineveh, dedicating his life to uncovering its mysteries. His journey reflects the broader theme of humanity’s relentless pursuit of knowledge amidst the backdrop of industrial pollution and societal decay. In contrast, Narin, a young girl living in Hasankeyf, faces the imminent threat of a dam that will submerge her town and its rich archaeological heritage. Her grandmother’s decision to take her to Iraq for baptism coincides with the rising tensions from the emergence of ISIS, highlighting the intersection of personal and political turmoil. Lastly, Dr. Zaleekhah Clarke, a modern-day hydrologist, grapples with personal crises, including a divorce and familial expectations. Her struggles resonate with the novel’s overarching themes of loss and resilience, as Shafak masterfully connects the past and present through the enduring symbol of water.