Traichmbrod

Everything is Illuminated examines the importance and limitations of memory. Memory can be enlightening, as when Jonathan recovers lost memories of his grandfather's life. He sees memories as the key to unlocking his family's secrets. By learning about his family's past, he learns about himself.

Memory can also be confining. When the people of Trachimbrod become obsessed with memories, they are unable to get anything done. Each memory begets another, and soon they cannot distinguish between memory and current events. They are immobilized by memory, like Lista the old woman. Lista considers herself the keeper of the memory of Trachimbrod, as not an honor but a punishment. She tells Jonathan that survivors are not lucky, meaning that, like herself, they bear memory as a burden. Like the townspeople, she must spend the rest of her life locked in the pain and confusion of memory instead of reaching for new opportunities.

In a different way, memory is confining for Grandfather. His memories of the war are so painful that he refuses to acknowledge them. He lives in fear of his memories. To remember is to risk danger, but it is also a chance to find peace.