Shimon Peres. Photo: info.kz
Dark Pages of “Last Lights of Lanterns”: Reflections on Life and Death
Assaf Valdan, grandson of former Israeli President Shimon Peres, passed away at the age of 35. His book, “Last Lights of Lanterns,” recently published, is a collection of diary entries, thoughts, hallucinations, and fragments of conversations reflecting the author’s inner struggle. Despite his solitude, he continued to drink whiskey with cola and smoke hashish.
The Writer as a Witness to Inner Chaos
The book’s editor, Oded Folkstein, assembled fragments from Valdan’s personal archive into a single volume marked by deep emotional intensity and tears. In his writings, Valdan explores his fears, pain, and desire to live, giving the book profound emotional significance.
Comparison with Great Works
American writer George Saunders once spoke about his inspiration for creating the novel “Lincoln in the Bardo,” based on the image of President Lincoln’s deceased son. Similarly, Valdan immerses himself in a world of internal fear and despair in his book, giving it deep emotional resonance.
Shimon Peres with grandson Asaf Veldan. Photo: Shaul Golan
Literature as a Creative Attempt
In “Last Lights of Lanterns,” Valdan’s attempt to express his internal experiences through literary art is evident. It is not merely a book but an effort to capture his inner struggles and experiences that were part of his life. This work captures his desire to live through creativity, despite the realization that language does not always convey all the nuances of the human soul.
Negative Legacy and Reflection
The book also reflects a broader cultural context related to the Valdan family and its legacy. It is a captivating yet tragic work that touches deep emotional chords and prompts readers to ponder life, death, and one’s place in the world.
Source: Ynet
