What are the symbols, allegory, themes in the novel "Dark at the crossing" ?

"Dark at the Crossing" by Elliot Ackerman is a novel set in the context of the Syrian civil war, and it explores several themes, symbols, and allegories related to war, identity, memory, and sacrifice. Here are some of the major ones:

1. The Crossing: The crossing symbolizes the dangerous journey that Haris, the protagonist, takes to enter Syria from Turkey in order to fight against the Assad regime. The crossing also represents the emotional, psychological, and cultural barriers that Haris must overcome as he grapples with his own identity, his past, and his reasons for joining the war.

2. The River: The river that Haris and other refugees must cross to enter Syria is a powerful symbol of the dangers and uncertainties of war. The river also represents the border between Turkey and Syria, and the crossing of this border symbolizes the breaking of laws, boundaries, and conventions.

3. The Allegory of the Cave: The novel makes several references to Plato's "Allegory of the Cave," which is a metaphor for the process of enlightenment and the search for truth. Haris is portrayed as a man who is searching for meaning and purpose in his life, and his journey to Syria is seen as a quest for truth and understanding.

4. Memory and Identity: The novel explores the theme of memory and identity, as Haris grapples with his own sense of self and his past. Haris is haunted by the memories of his failed marriage and his daughter's death, and his journey to Syria is seen as a way to escape from his past and redefine himself.

5. Sacrifice: The novel also explores the theme of sacrifice, as Haris and other characters must make difficult choices and sacrifices in order to achieve their goals. Haris must sacrifice his safety, his identity, and his relationships in order to join the war, and he must also confront the moral implications of his actions.

Overall, "Dark at the Crossing" is a complex and nuanced novel that explores several important themes and symbols related to war, identity, memory, and sacrifice.