In a recent interview at the Lviv BookForum, Salman Rushdie opened up about his life after the 2022 stabbing attack that resulted in the loss of an eye. The celebrated author revealed that he is currently working on a trilogy of novellas, each spanning approximately 70 pages. He described the overarching themes of these works as connected to “the three worlds in my life: India, England, and America,” emphasizing their collective exploration of endings.
At 77 years old, Rushdie participated in the Ukrainian festival via video link mainly to discuss his latest memoir, *Knife*, which chronicles his recovery following the attack at the Chautauqua Institution in New York. During a compelling conversation with Oleksandr Mykhed, a prominent Ukrainian writer, Rushdie reflected on the inevitability of pondering mortality at this stage in life. “When you reach this point, you realize there aren’t going to be 22 more books. If I’m lucky, maybe one or two,” he said candidly.
Rushdie also shared his insights on ‘late style,’ referencing philosopher Theodor Adorno and critic Edward Said, who analyze the various paths artists may take as they approach the twilight of their careers. “There are two possible directions,” he elaborated. “One is serenity and acceptance, where you write from a place of peace; the other is rage. I believe both emotions can coexist—you can feel calm at times and furious at others.”
This upcoming trilogy will be Rushdie’s first venture into fiction since the attack; his previous novel, *Victory City*, was finished prior to the incident and published in 2023. In his address, he expressed profound solidarity with Ukraine, describing the “terrible situation” the country finds itself in. He drew compelling parallels between his personal experiences and Ukraine’s broader struggle for narrative control. “Whether personal or political, power lies in narrative control,” he stated. “The Russians are trying to impose their version of history. It’s vital that we prevent that from happening. What you are experiencing is like my own situation, just on a smaller scale.”
Rushdie explained that his desire to reclaim his story was a primary motivation for writing *Knife*. “I thought to myself: ‘I’m a storyteller. I want to take back control of this narrative; I want to define it in my own way, making him a part of my story instead of me being part of his,’” he shared.
He also spoke with warmth about the significance of love in his life, particularly highlighting his relationship with Rachel Eliza Griffiths, his fifth wife. He framed their bond as a counterbalance to the violence he has endured, portraying it as a struggle between love and death—and between beauty and bigotry. “It’s essential to remember that human life consists of more than just bombs and corruption; it also embodies love and beauty,” he remarked.
The Lviv BookForum has provided a steadfast platform for authors, celebrating literature for over 31 years, despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The festival has sparked discussions on a wide range of topics, from Europe’s history in the 1990s to contemporary global democracy. Rushdie’s event in the historic Powder Tower attracted a full house, a testament to the resilience of literature and its audience during challenging times.
In related news, Hadi Matar, the 26-year-old accused of stabbing Rushdie, is facing second-degree attempted murder charges, with his trial scheduled to begin on October 15. He has also been federally indicted on terrorism charges. The attack has had significant consequences; in 1989, following the publication of Rushdie’s novel *The Satanic Verses*, a fatwa was issued, forcing him into years of danger and hiding—a narrative he explores in his memoir *Joseph Anton*. Rushdie’s literary legacy, particularly through his Booker Prize-winning *Midnight’s Children*, continues to resonate globally, securing his place as a pivotal figure in contemporary literature.
