An interview with Salman Rushdie

'Fury' is a novel that explores themes of anger, identity, and the search for meaning in a post-9/11 world. The story revolves around Malik Solanka, a Cambridge professor who abandons his family and flees to New York City in a state of rage and confusion. In New York, he becomes entangled in a web of political intrigue, personal relationships, and cultural clashes. Rushdie uses his signature blend of satire and social commentary to examine the complexities of contemporary life. The novel delves into the nature of fury, its causes, and its consequences, both on an individual and a global scale. 'Fury' offers a provocative and insightful exploration of the anxieties and uncertainties of the modern world.

The novel tells the story of Saleem Sinai, who is born at the stroke of midnight on August 15, 1947, the moment of India's independence from British rule. Saleem's life is intricately linked with the history of India, and he possesses telepathic powers that allow him to communicate with other 'midnight children' born between 12 a. m. and 1 a. m. on that date. Each of these children has unique magical powers, and Saleem acts as a conduit to connect them. The story spans various historical events in India, including the partition, wars, and the Emergency declared by Indira Gandhi. It explores themes of identity, history, and the fragmented nature of a newly independent nation.

The novel follows the lives of two Indian Muslims, Gibreel Farishta and Saladin Chamcha, who survive a plane hijacking and subsequent explosion. As they fall from the plane, they are transformed into angelic and satanic figures. The story delves into various themes, including the founding of Islam through the character Mahound, the story of a visionary girl named Ayesha, and the struggles of identity and faith. The book is known for its complex, multilayered plot and its use of dreams within dreams, which generated significant controversy due to its satirical and imaginative treatment of Islamic themes.

In 'Haroun and the Sea of Stories', Salman Rushdie takes readers on a magical adventure with Haroun Khalifa, the son of a famous storyteller named Rashid. When Haroun's mother leaves and Rashid loses his ability to tell stories, Haroun embarks on a quest to the Sea of Stories, a mystical realm where all tales originate. There, he encounters various characters and joins a war between the kingdoms of Gup and Chup to defeat Khattam-Shud, who seeks to end all stories. The novel explores the power of storytelling, freedom of speech, and the impact of narratives on reality. Written during a time of personal hardship, including the fatwa against Rushdie, the book is a testament to the resilience and importance of stories in our lives.