A Long Long Time Ago And Essentially True

Content Warning: This section of the guide describes and analyzes the guide’s treatment of antisemitism, rape, and wartime violence.

“Throughout history, from medieval workshops to loft rehabs in the E.U., we Poles have always been known by our złote rączki, our golden hands. The ability to fix […] all without ever opening a book or applying for permits or drafting a blueprint.”

Beata is talking about her grandfather’s abilities as a carpenter. The term “golden hands” repeats many times throughout the novel in reference to various skills. In addition, “golden hands” is a metaphor for making something out of nothing. The Poles of Half-Village prove their adaptability repeatedly when facing threats from Nazis and Russians.

“After suffering so many invasions from the Russians, Tatars, Ottomans, Turks, Cossacks, Prussians, and good God, even the Swedes, it is a primal instinct of all Poles everywhere to fence and wall in what belongs to us.”

This sardonically humorous comment relates to Czesław’s first building project. He proposes a wall around the Hetmański property. Boundary issues have always been a concern for Poland, given the numerous invaders who claimed land. Even in a peaceful rural setting, the people heed a territorial imperative.

“I love the afterglow of films, the nimbus of hope and idealism that follows you out from the cinema. The world opens wide, dreams seem close enough to touch, and anything is possible.”

Beata describes her trip to a Kraków movie theater. Even in her home village, she felt the lure of the cinema. Throughout the novel, Beata has difficulty defining a dream for herself, not realizing that her dream job is staring her in the face every time she watches a film.