Best-selling British-Turkish writer Elif Shafak discusses her latest novel, 10 Minutes 38 Seconds in this Strange World, Turkey's "backward slide," and what it means to be a citizen of the world.
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02/26/20 • 30 min
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Deep Background with Noah Feldman - Elif Shafak's "Multiple Belongings"
Transcript Summary
In this engaging episode titled "Elif Shafak's 'Multiple Belongings,'" the speaker captivates listeners by sharing their personal connection to Istanbul, a city intertwined with their emotions. Through thought-provoking reflections, the speaker expresses their belief in the concept of multiple belongings and being a global citizen, challenging the idea of writing only one's own story. Furthermore, they delve into the power of a novel infused with magical realism, exploring the marginalized characters within. The conversation then takes an intriguing turn, uncovering the legal strategy behind Harvey Weinstein's conviction on rape charges. Elif Shafak, a best-selling novelist who has courageously faced Turkish government opposition, serves as a fascinating subject. Despite facing charges and an ongoing investigation, her books continue to captivate readers worldwide. Elif's switch from writing in Turkish to English gave her a liberating sense of freedom, allowing her to speak her truth. She reveals her concerns about the decline of democracy and the rise of nationalism, religiosity, and fundamentalism in Turkey, emphasizing the significance of education while acknowledging its potential nationalist and religious biases. Elif draws attention to the information overload in our society, urging us to seek wisdom rather than mere knowledge. Finally, the speaker takes the audience on a vivid journey through the multiple layers of Istanbul, accompanied by a mesmerizing passage from Elif's novel. This episode promises a truly captivating exploration of personal narratives, societal dynamics, and the power of literature in a world shaped by conflicting beliefs and identities.
Transcript
Pushkin from Pushkin Industries. This is Deep Background, the show where we explore the stories behind the stories in the news. I'm Noah Feldman. Today we speak to a globally best selling novelist who has a special knack for angering the Turkish government. Her name is Elif Shafak. In two thousand and six, at the height of her fame, she was charged with insulting Turkishness because one of the characters in her novel The Bastard of Istanbul, refe
Elif Shafak's "Multiple Belongings" Top Questions Answered
What is the significance of Istanbul in Elif Shafak's life?
Istanbul holds a special place in Elif Shafak's life, as she finds the city elusive and emotional. It serves as a central character in her novel, reflecting its multiple versions and conflicting identities.
What does Elif Shafak mean by "multiple belongings"?
"Multiple belongings" is the belief held by Elif Shafak, where one can be a citizen of the world while still being attached to a specific place. It emphasizes the idea of belonging to different cultures and embracing diversity.
How does the concept of exile relate to Elif Shafak's personal situation?
Elif Shafak discusses the concept of exile, which resonates with her personal situation. She explores the feeling of being an "other" and challenges the notion that a writer can only write about their own experiences.
What is Elif Shafak fascinated by in relation to the brain?
Elif Shafak is fascinated by the brain's ability to continue living after death. This fascination is reflected in the blurred genre of her novel and her exploration of themes related to life and death.
How did Elif Shafak draw inspiration from her childhood memories?
Elif Shafak draws inspiration from her childhood memories of living in a patriarchal and conservative neighborhood. She particularly draws inspiration from her grandmother's oral storytelling and superstitious beliefs.
What charges did Elif Shafak face for her past work?
Elif Shafak faced charges for insulting Turkishness and crimes of obscenity in her past work. However, these charges were eventually dismissed.
How does Elif Shafak challenge the notion of a writer's experiences?
Elif Shafak challenges the notion that a writer can only write about their own experiences. She emphasizes the ability to write beyond personal experiences and the importance of embracing different perspectives.
What are some themes explored in Elif Shafak's novel "Ten Minutes thirty eight Seconds in This Strange World"?
Elif Shafak's novel "Ten Minutes thirty eight Seconds in This Strange World" deals with themes of prostitution, humor, irony, and satire.
What challenges does Elif Shafak face in writing in a language that is not her mother tongue?
Elif Shafak discusses the challenges and gifts that come with writing in a language that is not her mother tongue. It provides a different perspective and a sense of freedom, but also poses linguistic challenges.
What themes does Elif Shafak explore in relation to Turkey?
Elif Shafak explores the decline of democracy, rise of nationalism, religiosity, and increase in sexism, homophobia, and transphobia in Turkey. These themes are central to her writing and observations about society.
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