In the last decades of the twentieth century, the works of Salman Rushdie were fundamental in bringing to life a world in transformation: colonial regimes had been left behind but not their consequences. The variety of storytelling strategies and plurality of characters in Rushdie’s texts held up a mirror to hybrid societies in constant movement. Today, his writing, the profundity of his imagination, and his stance as a writer who is committed to freedom of expression continue to be of great value for interpreting an increasingly polarised present. Rushdie and some of his translators have been physically attacked as a result of a dangerous reactionary discourse that aims to keep critical thought under lock and key.
The writer and thinker Lisa Appignanesi, former president of English PEN, speaks with Salman Rushdie about his condition after the ferocious attack of 2022, his latest book, Victory City, and his writing life. In Kosmopolis, we read from his work as a way of paying homage to an author who continues to remind us of the strength and liberating power of words. The event will be presented by Judit Carrera. Readings by Salman Rushdie, Lisa Appignanesi, Marta Marco, Tamara Ndong, Rodrigo Fresán, and Gemma Ruiz.
Salman Rushdie will participate by videoconference.
