The Faraway Mountains

Radu Guiașu’s The Faraway Mountains melds the themes of friendship, freedom, and the haunting shadows of life under a repressive regime to deliver a spellbinding experience for readers. Set against the backdrop of Romania's communist past, the narrative hinges on a hiking expedition that unfolds as both an adventure and a philosophical exploration. The plot centers on three friends—Alex, Victor, and Dan—embarking on a challenging trek in the mountainous wilderness. Their camaraderie and personal struggles emerge vividly as they traverse the rugged terrain, revealing underlying tensions and past traumas. The journey to summit the enigmatic Bandits' Mountain becomes a metaphor for confronting inner and outer conflicts. These discussions explore their dreams and fears, drawing parallels between the dangers posed by nature and the oppressive political climate they navigate at home.  

The characters are richly drawn, embodying different facets of resilience and brokenness. Alex, the spirited leader, struggles with his desire for freedom. Victor is a cautious realist, exemplifying practicality in an uncertain world. Dan, the sensitive soul, reflects on romantic disappointments and societal pressures. Their dynamic illustrates a poignant bond shaped by shared experiences and the specter of loss, particularly the loss of their friend Gabriel, who died tragically on a previous ascent. The Faraway Mountains presents realistic conflict, experienced at different levels—nature’s unpredictability, the effect of their totalitarian society on their psyche, and the grief from Gabriel’s death. The mountains symbolize beauty and danger, continually testing the hikers' resolve. The external peril mirrors their internal battles against fear and self-doubt as they encounter inclement weather and wild animals. The setting plays a critical role in shaping the narrative. The majestic yet treacherous Romanian mountains become a sanctuary and prison, highlighting the dichotomy of freedom and entrapment. The wilderness is steeped in a haunting beauty that captivates the characters, stirring memories and dreams of a fully-lived life—something stifled by communist rule. Radu Guiașu has delivered a philosophical tale that can be read as an adventure and an allegory of life — clearly plotted and hauntingly mesmerizing.