Approaching Death: Salman Rushdie's 'The Eleventh Hour' - Salman Rushdie’s ‘Knife’ explores mortality with dark humor and history
Salman Rushdie, the renowned 78-year-old author, has returned to fiction with 'Knife', his first book since the 2022 stabbing attack that left him with severe injuries. The memoir, published in 2024, detailed his near-death experience and reflections on mortality. Now, two years later, Rushdie delves into storytelling to process his thoughts on life's final chapter.
In 'Knife', Rushdie explores the theme of mortality through five intricately layered short stories. Despite the heavy subject matter, his signature humor persists, providing moments of levity. The book features real historical figures and those inspired by them, such as Alan Turing, Francisco Goya, and Hieronymus Bosch, who interact with Rushdie's fictional characters. These characters observe political and societal shifts with a sense of resignation and bewilderment, reflecting Rushdie's own views on the world.
Rushdie's return to fiction comes after a long hiatus. His last novel before the attack was 'Quichotte' in 2019. The attack, which occurred while he was giving a lecture in New York, was condemned worldwide. It was seen as an attempt on his life due to his controversial novel 'The Satanic Verses', which faced a fatwa calling for his assassination in 1989.
With 'Knife', Rushdie continues his exploration of complex themes, blending fact and fiction, and infusing his work with his unique perspective on the world. As a U.S. citizen residing in the United States, Rushdie's work continues to be a reflection of his experiences and observations, offering readers a fresh perspective on mortality and the human condition.
