Politis

The Stones 'on the Steep Stairs'

Published March 29, 2026, 07:23
The Stones 'on the Steep Stairs'

The article uses a metaphor from the Mauthausen concentration camp, where prisoners were forced to carry heavy stones up a steep staircase, as an allegory for the challenges facing Hellenism in Cyprus. The “heavy stones” symbolize the obstacles that must be overcome for the survival of Hellenism, such as the metaphysical perception of history, the denial of reality, and the lack of consensus on a federal solution. The author argues that the only realistic solution for the survival of Hellenism in Cyprus is a bi-communal federation, but requires a conscious effort to address the obstacles standing in the way of its achievement. Remaining in the current status quo is considered to lead to a permanent partition.