Approaching Death: Salman Rushdie's 'The Eleventh Hour' - Salman Rushdie’s *Knife* turns survival into a defiant literary triumph
Veteran author Salman Rushdie, now 78, has published his latest novel, 'Knife', his first work of fiction since the brutal attack on his life in 2022. The book delves into profound themes of mortality and free speech, reflecting Rushdie's personal journey and experiences.
Rushdie, known for his wit and intricate storytelling, maintains his signature humor in 'Knife' despite exploring heavy themes. The book consists of five short stories, each a reflection on life and death, inspired by his near-fatal stabbing in 2022. Language itself is personified as a tragic character, serving as an allegory for the state of free speech.
Rushdie projects himself into his narrators and protagonists, with real historical figures like Alan Turing, Francisco Goya, and Hieronymus Bosch making appearances. He uses his characters to explore how one might confront their own mortality through storytelling. The author's trademark intricately layered narratives and autobiographical parallels are evident throughout the book.
In 'Knife', Rushdie confronts mortality head-on, drawing from his own brush with death. The book is a testament to his enduring spirit and commitment to free speech, themes that have defined his career since the fatwa issued against him following the publication of 'The Satanic Verses' in 1989.
