Responding to Hatred in Memoir

In his latest memoir, *Knife*, Salman Rushdie recounts the harrowing experience of being attacked in 2022 by a man who had not even read his controversial novel, *The Satanic Verses*. The assailant struck Rushdie multiple times in a swift 27 seconds, causing severe injuries, including damage to his left hand. This incident, which stemmed from a fatwa issued by an Iranian ayatollah decades earlier, underscores the ongoing threats faced by writers who challenge societal norms. Rushdie, who previously chronicled his life in the third person in *Joseph Anton*, reflects on the personal cost of defending freedom of expression. He emphasizes the importance of his work, stating that he is proud of having published *The Satanic Verses*, despite the risks involved. His latest novel, *Victory City*, released in early 2023, explores themes of power and resilience through the story of Pampa Kampana, a character who creates a city amidst turmoil. The author expresses disappointment over India's response to his attack, particularly given that it was the first country to restrict *The Satanic Verses*. He laments the lack of substantial support from India's Hindu nationalist leadership, highlighting the complexities of his identity as an Indian writer living under the shadow of the fatwa. In addition to his literary pursuits, Rushdie has been active in supporting initiatives for persecuted writers, such as the City of Asylum project and the International Cities of Refuge Network, which provides sanctuary to artists worldwide. He reflects on the evolving landscape of free expression in the digital age, recognizing the diverse voices that now shape public discourse.