Unbeliever in the Impossible

Abstract

This chapter examines the implications of the most celebrated love story between a Palestinian man and an Israeli-Jewish woman in recent history. What does it reveal about Darwish’s self-definition and his attitude toward the Israeli other? I argue that although Darwish came to be known as a poet of resistance, he had always advocated dialogue with Israelis and embraced the Israeli component in his Palestinian identity. The personal story of these star-crossed lovers illustrates the tragedy of two neighboring communities that have the potential to develop close and enriching ties but are instead embroiled in a century-long conflict. Darwish’s resonant words, “We are both unbelievers in the impossible,” offer a message of hope for a future resolution of this conflict.