Tal Saki

Tal Saki is a fictional character appearing in the works of Israeli author David Grossman, most notably in his novel To the End of the Land (Hebrew: Isha Borachat MiBesora). Tal Saki is the son of Ora and Avram, and the central figure around whose potential harm or death the novel revolves.

In To the End of the Land, Ora embarks on a hiking journey across Israel, refusing to wait at home for news about Tal's military service. This decision stems from her fear that she will receive the same devastating news she received years prior regarding her other son, Ofer. The novel explores themes of motherhood, grief, trauma, and the impact of military conflict on individuals and families. Tal Saki's unseen presence acts as a constant, driving force behind Ora's actions and the narrative's emotional weight. He is a symbol of the anxieties and sacrifices inherent in a society marked by ongoing conflict. While not directly present as a speaking character, the reader learns about Tal through Ora's memories, reflections, and interactions with others. His character is built through absence and anticipation, making him a powerful, albeit indirect, presence in the story.