Nihal Arthanayake, a dynamic broadcaster known for his candid interviews, chats with Elif Shafak, an acclaimed author celebrated for her rich storytelling. They dive into the emotional depth of 'Amma,' touching on themes like displacement and the strength of women. Nihal finds humor in Desiree Akhavan's memoir, exploring immigrant identity with wit. The duo also reflects on chaotic personal libraries, linking them to their diverse backgrounds, while uncovering the challenges and joys of literary creation.
Nihal Arthanayake highlights the authenticity in Sareid de Silva's 'Amma', showcasing cultural representation without anglicizing it for Western audiences.
Elif Shafak emphasizes the importance of humor and candidness in Desiree Akhavan's memoir 'You're Embarrassing Yourself', reflecting on identity and resilience.
Deep dives
Exploring Identity and Displacement in 'Amma'
The novel 'Amma' by Sareid de Silva tells the story of three generations of women in a Sri Lankan family, addressing themes of identity and displacement. Nihal Athanaika emphasizes the significance of seeing his own cultural background represented authentically in literature, highlighting that the author avoids anglicizing the narrative for Western readers. The narrative unfolds across various locations, including Sri Lanka, Singapore, and London, showcasing how the family’s experiences shape their identities amidst displacement. Elif Shafak appreciates how the book captures the nuances of mother-daughter relationships and the resilience of women facing inherited trauma, resonating deeply with her own experiences as a writer focused on similar themes.
Reimagining a Classic with 'The Second Murderer'
Denise Mina's 'The Second Murderer' updates Raymond Chandler's detective Philip Marlowe while remaining true to the original noir style. Nihal Athanaika expresses skepticism about the necessity of retelling a classic narrative, questioning the value of reading a modern interpretation rather than the original. However, Elif Shafak finds value in Mina's fresh perspective, particularly in how she addresses outdated attitudes prevalent in the original works. The intricate dialogues and atmospheric writing capture the essence of Los Angeles, adding depth to the detectives' escapades while also challenging the misogynistic and racist undertones of Chandler's writing.
Humor and Vulnerability in Desiree Akhavan's Memoir
Desiree Akhavan's memoir 'You're Embarrassing Yourself' explores themes of identity, family dynamics, and the challenges faced by immigrant families. Both Nihal and Elif commend Akhavan's humorous storytelling, emphasizing her candidness about embarrassing moments and her journey toward self-acceptance, particularly regarding her sexuality. The memoir not only recounts personal anecdotes but also reflects on the generational struggles within her Iranian-American family, showcasing how Akhavan’s openness can serve as a form of empowerment. Shafak notes the resilience displayed in the narrative and how humor serves as a vital tool for coping and understanding past traumas.
Nihal has chosen Amma, the debut novel by Sri Lankan writer Saraid de Silva, which he compares to meeting someone on a train and having a long, intense conversation. Elif Shafak's choice, however, You're Embarrassing Yourself by Desiree Akhavan, he describes as more like a hilarious night in a pub. Harriett has gone for The Second Murderer by Denise Mina, a Philip Marlowe novel. But is there a need to add to Raymond Chandler's canon?
Produced for BBC Audio Bristol by Sally Heaven
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