DESERT FLOWER by Waris Dirie

How does the text relate to the theme of a journey?
The text notes the transformation of a nomad into a woman of the world. Desert Flower outlines Waris’s survival from desert in Somalia to Galcaio, Mogadishu and eventually becoming a model in London. Waris’s journey continued as she pursued her career in the cities all over the world such as Paris, Milan and New York until she was appointed as UN special ambassador. Today, she travels the world speaking out against the uncivilized practice of Female Genital Mutilation.

What is the main issue in the text?
The main issue in this text is a courageous woman’s struggles to come to terms with her Somali childhood, including her experience of female genital mutilation. This memoir of an international supermodel is undoubtedly remarkable with all the dreadful experiences along the way to success.

What quality do you admire or dislike in a character?
Waris is a determined, independent and courageous spirit. I adore her courage to make her own way out. Along her journey to be successful, she relied on no one but herself. Apart from that, she worked extremely hard for her dreams to come true and never gave up.

How does the text develop your understanding of the world?
When there is a will, there is always a way. The world is full of chances. We have to take the first move with courage in order to pursue our dreams. Though custom is cultural heritage, the barbaric and brutal one must be abolished so that our life is better off.