Being-Here: Placemaking in a World of Movement

Being-Here explores the interrelated meanings of emplacement and displacement as experienced in the everyday lives of three middle-aged Somalis living in Melbourne, Australia, and examines the figure of the refugee as a metaphor for societal alienation and estrangement.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 252 pages
Publication date: 13 May 2022
Publisher: Berghahn Books

Exploring the lifeworlds of Halima, Omar, and Mohamed, three middle-aged Somalis living in Melbourne, Australia, the author delves into the intricate interplay of emplacement and displacement as experienced in the daily lives of these individuals. Through their narratives of displacement and placemaking, Being-Here critically examines the concept of the refugee as a metaphor for societal alienation and estrangement. It also pushes anthropological theory towards a fresh perspective, shedding light on the profound existential connections between Sein (Being) and Da (Here).

Halima, a 45-year-old mother of three, has lived in Melbourne for over a decade. She arrived in Australia as a refugee, fleeing the civil war in her homeland of Somalia. Despite the challenges of displacement, Halima has found a sense of belonging in her community. She works as a cleaner and has formed strong relationships with her neighbors. However, she often feels isolated and disconnected from mainstream Australian society.

Omar, a 38-year-old businessman, also came to Australia as a refugee. He arrived with his family and established a successful restaurant in the city. Omar has achieved financial stability and has built a comfortable life for himself and his family. However, he struggles with feelings of nostalgia for his homeland and the loss of his cultural identity.

Mohamed, a 42-year-old engineer, is the newest addition to the Somali community in Melbourne. He arrived in Australia a few years ago to pursue his education and has since found a job in the technology industry. Mohamed is a highly educated and ambitious individual, but he also feels a sense of isolation and uncertainty in his new environment.

The author argues that the experiences of displacement and placemaking are interconnected and shape the lives of these individuals in profound ways. Being-Here explores the concept of emplacement, which refers to the physical and social context in which individuals live. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the specific cultural and social norms that shape individuals' experiences and identities.

Displacement, on the other hand, refers to the process of moving from one place to another, often due to forced migration or conflict. It can be a traumatic experience that disrupts individuals' sense of belonging and identity. Being-Here examines the ways in which displacement affects individuals' sense of self, their relationships with others, and their ability to adapt to new environments.

Through the narratives of Halima, Omar, and Mohamed, Being-Here sheds light on the complexities of being a refugee in a foreign land. It highlights the challenges of adapting to a new culture, the loss of familiar landmarks and relationships, and the struggle to maintain a sense of self in the face of uncertainty.

The author also uses the figure of the refugee as a metaphor for societal alienation and estrangement. The refugee is often seen as a marginalized and excluded figure, unable to fully integrate into society. Being-Here challenges this perception by demonstrating the ways in which refugees can contribute to their communities and make meaningful contributions to society.

In conclusion, Being-Here is a thought-provoking and insightful book that offers a new perspective on the experiences of displacement and placemaking. Through the narratives of Halima, Omar, and Mohamed, the author demonstrates the ways in which emplacement and displacement shape individuals' lives and contribute to societal alienation and estrangement. By exploring the existential connections between Sein (Being) and Da (Here), Being-Here pushes anthropological theory towards a more nuanced understanding of the human experience.

Weight: 384g
Dimension: 153 x 228 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800734401