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The New Yorker: The Writer's Voice - New Fiction from The New Yorker

Jamil Jan Kochai Reads “On the Night of the Khatam”

Feb 19, 2024
Jamil Jan Kochai, author of '99 Nights in Logar', reads 'On the Night of the Khatam'. The story delves into couples navigating an unusual khatam scenario, interactions at Haji Hautak's gathering, a night of prayer with distractions, political intrigue, disconnection in relationships, and loneliness. A mix of humor, tension, and reflections unfold in this engaging narrative.
34:47

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The podcast explores complex friendship dynamics and reconciliation among Afghan men during a khatam gathering.
  • It delves into the profound impact of shared storytelling and communal forgiveness on personal introspection and emotional connections.

Deep dives

Late Arrival and Courteous Behavior at the Khatam

Men gather late at Haji Hautak's house for a khatam, invited by their wives. They arrive after the instructed time out of courtesy to not be the first guests. Despite physical challenges and war scars, they engage in typical banter, highlighting their mangled friendship dynamics. The event unfolds with social nuances and interactions, showcasing their varied backgrounds and experiences.

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