In the novel "A Long Way Gone" by Ishmael Beah, Ishmael is a child soldier who is forced to fight in the civil war in Sierra Leone. During his time as a child soldier, Ishmael experiences extreme violence and trauma, which has a lasting impact on his life.
When Ishmael is eventually rescued, he brings with him a machete. This weapon was given to him when he was forced to join a group of child soldiers, and he used it to commit violent acts against others. The machete became a symbol of the violence and brutality that Ishmael was forced to participate in.
After Ishmael is rescued by UNICEF, he begins the long process of healing from the trauma he experienced as a child soldier. However, this is not an easy journey, and he struggles to adjust to civilian life and cope with the memories of the violence he witnessed and committed.
Despite these challenges, Ishmael is able to find hope for his future. He becomes an advocate for peace and uses his experiences to raise awareness about the impact of war on children. By sharing his story, Ishmael helps others understand the realities of war and the importance of working towards a more peaceful future.
In conclusion, Ishmael brings a machete with him when he is rescued in the novel "A Long Way Gone". This weapon serves as a powerful symbol of the violence and trauma that Ishmael experienced as a child soldier. Despite the challenges he faces in the aftermath of his experiences, Ishmael is ultimately able to find hope and healing, and he uses his story to advocate for peace and raise awareness about the impact of war on children.