The Story
What the Salman Rushdie trial means for free speech
Feb 20, 2025
Will Pavia, New York correspondent for The Times, and Robbie Millen, literary editor at The Times, dive into the chilling ramifications of the trial surrounding Salman Rushdie's brutal attack. They discuss the chaos of the incident and its impact on Rushdie's literary journey, revealing the ongoing threats to freedom of expression. The conversation also touches on the trial's implications for modern publishing and the voices rising against authoritarianism in literature. This critical dialogue examines how such events reshape our understanding of free speech today.
30:59
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Quick takeaways
- Salman Rushdie's recent attack not only highlights the risks faced by writers but also the enduring struggle for freedom of expression.
- The trial of Hadi Mattar raises critical questions about the balance between artistic freedom and the violent repercussions that can ensue.
Deep dives
The Attack on Salman Rushdie
The episode details the shocking attack on Salman Rushdie, which occurred during a speaking engagement in Chautauqua, New York. A man, later identified as Hadi Mattar, rushed the stage and stabbed Rushdie multiple times, leaving him with severe injuries, including the loss of vision in one eye. Eyewitnesses initially mistook the assault for a rehearsed act until the gravity of the situation became clear, prompting audience members to intervene. The swift response from medical professionals in the audience proved crucial in Rushdie's survival, allowing him to receive immediate trauma care.
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