I feel there is a parable here about life choices, yet it’s presented subtly, giving us much to think about. I wonder what I would have done in Emin's place. I suppose I would have made the same decision. The pull of love and family is powerful. But the option to live comfortably yet frugally would have a strong draw compared with going back through that deadly forest!
Thanks very much for reading, @jayna. I guess you could categorize this as an allegory. I know it's not really pleasant reading, but it was something I had to get out. No happy ending here. Just life ;)