A Long, Long Time Ago & Essentially True explores the changing political climate in Poland from the dual perspective of events in 1939 and 1992. The novel’s protagonist experiences an identity crisis as she tries to decide what to do with her life. Her struggle mirrors the identity crisis of Poland itself during the pivotal years of the early 1990s. While this story might fit easily into the larger category of novels depicting the devastating consequences of war, Poland’s location makes its struggle for identity especially poignant. Geographically, Poland is situated at the very center of Europe and forms a dividing line between the ideologies of the East and West. It has sometimes been called the crossroads of Europe because armies intent on conquest must pass through its borders to reach their ultimate destination. Consequently, the Polish population has been chronically subjected to conflict and outside interference.

While Poland has existed as a nation since the 10th century and was once the largest country in Europe, its geographic location leaves it vulnerable to attack from both East and West. The earliest significant incursion from the East was the Mongol (Tatar) onslaught of the 13th century.