Religion vs Literature
An interesting conflict is underway at the moment - Salman Rushdie's knighthood, which brought about a several reprimands from Islamic countries.
Why is it interesting?
Several reasons, Mr Rushdie's literary contributions to the world cannot be denied and if the British government chooses to reward these contributions with a knighthood - why not? But then again the western world is trying it's level best to appear accepting of other religions, especially Islam. And in view of the marked schism between the communities is it really wise to honour the very man who offended the religion and had a 'fatwa' issued in his name by the late Ayatollah Khomeini? Does the knighthood show a lack of respect for the Ayatollah's decision? Especially when this religion had a significant role to play in the doomed author's success.
Would the renowned author's work have been as successful without the contoversy? Maybe, maybe not. Without undermining his talent, there is no denying that religion in one way or another did play a vital role in his success. But does that mean that he is in debt of it?
But then again religion has always added colour to literature. But not a positive one. Religion and Literature have rarely ever seen eye to eye. Religions, be it Islam or Christianity have always shunned nay-sayers. But the only difference this time is that unlike in the middle ages where the rulers more often than not followed religious leaders, the government in the UK is breaking the cycle. And despite Pakistan's warnings that the honour will spark further religious animosity, the UK is not apologising for the honour. Which is admirable.
Does that mean that literature emerges the victor in this battle that has lasted over centuries? No. It just means that one man's writing is worthy of an honour and someone is going to give it to him. Nothing more, nothing less.
An interesting conflict is underway at the moment - Salman Rushdie's knighthood, which brought about a several reprimands from Islamic countries.
Why is it interesting?
Several reasons, Mr Rushdie's literary contributions to the world cannot be denied and if the British government chooses to reward these contributions with a knighthood - why not? But then again the western world is trying it's level best to appear accepting of other religions, especially Islam. And in view of the marked schism between the communities is it really wise to honour the very man who offended the religion and had a 'fatwa' issued in his name by the late Ayatollah Khomeini? Does the knighthood show a lack of respect for the Ayatollah's decision? Especially when this religion had a significant role to play in the doomed author's success.
Would the renowned author's work have been as successful without the contoversy? Maybe, maybe not. Without undermining his talent, there is no denying that religion in one way or another did play a vital role in his success. But does that mean that he is in debt of it?
But then again religion has always added colour to literature. But not a positive one. Religion and Literature have rarely ever seen eye to eye. Religions, be it Islam or Christianity have always shunned nay-sayers. But the only difference this time is that unlike in the middle ages where the rulers more often than not followed religious leaders, the government in the UK is breaking the cycle. And despite Pakistan's warnings that the honour will spark further religious animosity, the UK is not apologising for the honour. Which is admirable.
Does that mean that literature emerges the victor in this battle that has lasted over centuries? No. It just means that one man's writing is worthy of an honour and someone is going to give it to him. Nothing more, nothing less.
You choose interesting topics to blog about.
ReplyDeleteNow if I may lend some critique to the writing style.
1. You use "But then again" all over the place. While it is fair to weigh both sides of the issue, it makes for a weak paragraph. Assert yourself. People want to hear an editorial voice with opinion.
2. You say "maybe this but maybe that" and "maybe maybe not" all over the place. Again, drive a stake into the issue, and put it to rest. With venom.
The assertion might not be your honest opinion, but it makes for better reading.
My personal opinion - Wired magazine has some of the best journalism in the business. Take a look. www.wired.com
Sebastian