Blue Sea and Brown Guns: Finding a Way Back to Cyprus​

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A memoir informed by social and political history, which explores the fragmented experience of growing up with more than one country of origin. It is told from my perspective as someone who was brought up in Britain and, who, in the wake of Brexit, has recently gained Cypriot citizenship – despite never having lived in Cyprus nor having visited for twenty-three years, owing to a deeply uncomfortable relationship with the place. This summer marks the 50th anniversary of the Cypriot civil war, which has left the island partitioned to this day. Set against this backdrop, BLUE SEA AND BROWN GUNS investigates the meaning of homeland and the effect that culture and heritage exert on us from afar. 

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The story strikes at the heart of who we are and how we are formed by the influences of our parents, our cultures and our family histories. It asks how we can let go of the past and move forward. The themes it explores, including war, prejudice and physical abuse, are heavy subjects, but BLUE SEA AND BROWN GUNS is told with warmth and a delight in the epicurean, depicting the often farcical nature of Mediterranean culture with a wry but loving sense of humour.