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"Original, extraordinary, deftly crafted, compelling, harrowing, emotionally engaging, memorable, and a compellingly fascinating read from start to finish." — Midwest Book Review Last Moments is a poignant collection of six short stories by Hirbod Human, each highlighting the struggles and sacrifices of individuals fighting for their rights under an oppressive regime. These narratives are inspired by personal experiences and extensive interviews with victims of human rights violations, presenting a raw and unflinching portrayal of life under the Islamic Republic of Iran.
SynopsisAirportIn a cramped, oppressive room, a young woman faces the terror of an uncertain fate at the hands of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard. Her demeaning encounter with a ruthless captain highlights the pervasive fear and powerlessness many experience under the regime.
PrisonAn unnamed protagonist, numb and broken from incarceration, awaits execution. As he contemplates his life and imminent death, his perceptions blur, and his emotions fade. Inspired by Darkness at Noon, this harrowing narrative reveals the brutality of state violence and the psychological torment inflicted upon political prisoners in Iran.
FamilyRojan, a heavily pregnant woman with two small children, frantically searches for her detained husband, Atta. Though her family reassures her, an overwhelming sense of doom lingers. Her struggle reflects the anguish of countless families torn apart by wrongful imprisonment and executions.
CarA routine car ride through a city in turmoil becomes a nightmare for Hamed. As he narrates the unfolding chaos via video call to his family, he gradually realizes that while the streets outside burn with protests, something is very wrong inside the car. This story captures the unpredictability of life in Iran, where any moment can turn into a fight for survival.
HomeA follow-up to Car, this story shifts focus to Hamed's family as they realize something terrible has happened. Their immediate sense of security is shattered, highlighting how ordinary families can become collateral damage in a system of fear and control.
HospitalA wounded protester clings to life in a hospital-an institution that should symbolize safety and healing. Yet, the hospital itself becomes a dangerous space, where a doctor and nurse risk their own safety by treating those targeted by the regime. This story underscores how oppression infiltrates even places meant for care and recovery. Written in indirect yet poetic language, Last Moments is a deeply moving portrayal of resilience under tyranny. While harrowing, these stories hold a quiet strength, leaving the reader with a lingering sense of both sorrow and hope.
Hirbod Human is a writer, filmmaker, and visual artist whose work explores themes of human rights, political oppression, and cultural identity. His storytelling is deeply influenced by personal experiences, extensive research, and interviews with individuals affected by authoritarian regimes. As a documentarian, he has produced multiple films and podcasts focusing on the Middle East, Iran, and the struggles of those fighting for freedom. His work often bridges the intersection of art, activism, and personal narrative, shedding light on the untold stories of resilience and survival under oppressive systems. Currently pursuing a PhD in Design, Aesthetics, and the Arts, Hirbod continues to explore the power of storytelling as a tool for awareness and change. Last Moments is a testament to this mission-offering a poignant collection of short stories that reflect the harrowing realities of life under political repression while capturing the enduring human spirit.
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