You would think I would know more after so many years of American “involvement” in the region, but remember, I’m a public school kid bent on little more than trending with the masses. When I hear the word “Tigris” I think of a slinky female Lucha Libre participant, and not of a river somewhere halfway around the world, hence the need for me to bone up on my geography, history, and knowledge of water.
Thankfully, Leon McCarron and a band of misfit fellow travelers decided to try and float this historic body of water. What emerged, no pun intended, is “Wounded Tigris: A River Journey Through The Cradle of Civilization.” Turkey, Syria, and into the beating heart of Iraq. From source to sea. That’s the idea anyway.
In case you’ve been huffing paint for the past twenty-five years, this region isn’t what anyone would call “stable.”
There are issues. From war, terrorism, and general instability to world-class environmental destruction, something the book touches on quite nicely. Security and permission are real issues, and the main cast of characters must play along with everything from roadblocks to official permission to the occasional rifle round coming their way.
For those of you with photographic tendencies, know that one of the party members is photojournalist Emily Garthwaite who certainly knows her way around a viewfinder. (She is a total badass. Her work and site are incredible.) And how refreshing to see a journey like this given the photography dedication it so deserves. There is also the stoic cinematographer, Claudio von Planta, and a range of local experts Angel, Bisar, Salman, Hana, and Ali who make the journey possible.
What stuck out for me was the stories of the journey itself, the incredible locations mostly unvisited due to turmoil in the region, and the environmental harm the river and its people endure. Heartbreaking, but there is promise. The river just might be what saves these places in the long run. But there is so much work to be done. And places like Iraq are bellwethers for climate change which is unleashing a living Hell on the region. Books like this are about adventure and education. I know more now than I did before, and that’s a good thing. Even though the book details so many challenging aspects of the region, it more than anything, left me saying “Let’s go.” Get it, read it.
Comments 16
Adding to mt tbr…sounds very interesting. Also, looking forward to the live today…wasn’t able to submit photos this time…completely forgot. We’re recovering from Helene here so it’s been quite insane. Next time, though.
Sending my love and care to you, Tina. I hope your recovery efforts are going smoothly. Honestly, beyond donating to organizations that are helping, I don’t know what else I might be able to do. But if there’s anything I can help you with, I’m here. Even if it’s just to listen.
Author
Geez, that was a monster. Milton not so good either but perhaps less than expected.
This is a book that will be added to my reading list. Of course, I had to visit Emily’s site. From the jump, there are images that tell a story of the resilience of people. And the incredibly beautiful works of architecture and textiles. The incredible spirit of people simply trying to live their lives. One image in particular took me in. That man, standing there with a look in his eyes… at first I was reminded of that saying, “they know not what they do…” but his eyes also heartbreakingly communicate that “they know exactly what they are doing”.
Thank you so much for your kind words. We, by some miracle, didn’t get it as bad as our neighboring areas. I honestly think the drought saved us from the flooding..Asheville is only two hours from us and they got hit so hard…it was such a beautiful artful place. My heart crushes for these areas so close to us. I never would’ve thought we would get hit like this…us appalachian folk aren’t prepared for things like this because it never happens. Our six year old son kept asking me if anyone passed away, I couldn’t dare to tell him the truth. He worries about people…even ones he’s never met. Today was his first full day back at school. Sorry for venting on your post. Lol. We need more kind humans like you.
Author
Hey, you made it. Now you do what you can to help and we all learn how to better prepare.
Author
She is really good. And fully invested in her region. Rare. Again, I see her work and it makes anything on YT just vanish from my mind.
Yep, I visited Emily’s site as well. Wow. Love the shot of the woman on the horse in the river with the determined look and rifle over her shoulder.
Author
There are so many great frames.
I’ve ordered the book and can’t wait to read it, I’m off to work on a project in Ireland for a month, this will be a good companion.
Author
Can I go?
I love this section, Dan. You are creating a high-quality reading database. It feels almost like a personal recommendation.
Author
You are welcome. Reading is so critical and so fun.
Only if you’re on your best behavior and enjoy a few creamy pints of guiness.
The book doesn’t include Emily’s photos does it? I’m a big fan. They need to do a photobook if they haven’t already.
Author
Yes, a few. Two sections of photographs, but not like an essay or anything like that.