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Books and Authors

A Good Read: Nihal Arthanayake and Elif Shafak

Nov 4, 2024
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.
27:35

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Quick takeaways

  • 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.

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