Three Thousand Years of Longing

Alithea Binnie, a British scholar specializing in narratology, has a unique experience with hallucinations involving demonic entities. These visions shape her outlook on life and foreshadow her upcoming surreal encounter with a Djinn.

While visiting the vibrant city of Istanbul, Alithea unexpectedly finds an antique bottle. This chance discovery leads to the release of a trapped Djinn, setting off a chain of fantastical events.

The Djinn introduces himself to Alithea and presents her with the opportunity to fulfill three wishes. However, he lays down strict conditions, prompting Alithea to question the true intentions behind such offers.

Alithea reflects on her childhood, recalling the imaginary friend she crafted in her diary. This introspection reveals her apprehension about the power of imagination and the fear of potential regret that accompanies her choices.

The Djinn recounts his first story, revealing his kinship with the Queen of Sheba. Jealousy and betrayal lead King Solomon to imprison him in a brass bottle, cast into the Red Sea, unveiling the tragic beginnings of his entrapment.

The Djinn narrates the story of Gülten, a concubine at the court of Suleiman the Magnificent. Her wish for love ends in betrayal, manipulated by Hürrem Sultan, leading to her tragic demise and unfulfilled desires.

Following Gülten's betrayal, the Djinn endures over a century of invisibility in the royal palace. He witnesses the rise and fall of various rulers, becoming a silent observer of human ambition and loss.

The Djinn shares the poignant tale of Zefir, a young merchant's wife in the mid-19th century. Seeking wisdom, her desires deepen their bond, but her wish for independence ultimately leads her to a tragic oblivion.

Moved by the Djinn's stories, Alithea makes her first wish for him to love her as he once loved Zefir. This sparks a romantic connection, and they begin to explore the world together, deepening their relationship.

Alithea soon realizes the challenges the Djinn faces in the modern world. City life and technology hinder his existence, causing her to worry about the implications of their union.

Desperate to help the Djinn, Alithea uses her second wish to uncover his voice, allowing him to express his thoughts and regrets. This act brings them closer, but the challenges remain.

With a heavy heart, Alithea makes her final wish to set the Djinn free, allowing him to return to his own realm. This bittersweet decision marks the end of their direct connection, but it reflects her deep care for him.

In the years that follow, Alithea writes a book inspired by the Djinn's captivating tales, a nostalgic homage to her youth. This work symbolizes her connection to him and preserves the magic of their encounters.

One day, while walking through the park, Alithea spots the Djinn, now healthy and vibrant. They embrace tenderly, demonstrating that their bond transcends wishes, and their love endures through the years.

As they stroll hand in hand, Alithea narrates that the Djinn will always return to her throughout her life. This promise solidifies their everlasting connection and highlights the importance of love and memory.