At the heart of the Turin Book Fair, Nobel laureate Abdulrazak Gurnah highlighted the pressing issue of migration through his acclaimed novel, “The Last Gift.” Gurnah, recipient of the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2021, emphasized the necessity of comprehending our historical roots and individual identities.
Gurnah, a prominent figure at the fair on May 12 2024, drew attention to the plight of migrants and advocated for a more compassionate approach towards their experiences. He expressed deep concern over Europe’s treatment of migrants, describing it as inhumane. Gurnah voiced his dismay at the harsh realities faced by migrants, who risk their lives fleeing conflict-ridden regions only to encounter hostility and mistreatment upon reaching Europe’s borders.
The author underscored the significance of how migrant populations are perceived within host societies, noting a prevailing prejudice associating migration with criminality across many countries. He stressed that without avenues for legal and regulated migration, individuals would resort to perilous means to seek safety and opportunity, perpetuating the cycle of migration.
Gurnah, who hails from Zanzibar and later settled in England, delved into the multifaceted nature of belonging, exploring different dimensions beyond mere geographical or familial ties. He reflected on the choices individuals make to redefine their sense of belonging, whether out of necessity or aspiration for a better life.
In his novel, “The Last Gift,” Gurnah weaves a narrative centered on Abbas, a former sailor grappling with the complexities of identity and reconciliation. Through Abbas’s journey, Gurnah delves into the themes of secrecy, forgiveness, and the quest for serenity amidst societal and personal upheavals.
As a Nobel laureate residing in Canterbury, England, Gurnah continues to illuminate the human experience through his poignant storytelling, urging societies to confront historical truths and embrace empathy in their treatment of migrants.