Deep Dive
Why does Elif Shafak see literature as transcendental?
Shafak views literature as transcendental because it allows her to explore different existences and possibilities, transcending her own life experiences. She believes literature opens up new worlds and perspectives, much like it did for her as a child growing up in a conservative environment in Turkey.
How does Elif Shafak approach storytelling in her novels?
Shafak approaches storytelling with curiosity and a desire to bridge cultures and communities. She draws from both written and oral traditions, aiming to create a sense of inclusivity and connection. Her stories often explore universal themes like home, belonging, and displacement, while also incorporating unique and ambitious narrative structures.
What inspired the concept of tracing a single drop of water in 'There Are Rivers in the Sky'?
The concept of tracing a single drop of water across centuries and continents was inspired by the idea of building a novel around something seemingly insignificant, like a droplet. Shafak wanted to explore how such a small element could connect different characters, rivers, and historical events, reflecting themes of interconnectedness and the cyclical nature of time.
Why does Elif Shafak emphasize the importance of water in her novel?
Shafak emphasizes the importance of water because it serves as a metaphor for interconnectedness and the global water crisis. She highlights how water scarcity affects regions like the Middle East, where seven of the ten most water-stressed nations are located. Water also symbolizes the cyclical nature of history, reminding us that progress is not always linear.
How does Elif Shafak connect her characters in 'There Are Rivers in the Sky'?
Shafak connects her characters through the journey of a single drop of water, which ties them together like atoms in a water molecule. The characters, set in different times and places, are interconnected by their shared experiences with water and the themes of home, belonging, and displacement.
What role does the Epic of Gilgamesh play in 'There Are Rivers in the Sky'?
The Epic of Gilgamesh serves as a central element in the novel, connecting the characters and their stories. It is the oldest piece of literature known to humanity and reflects themes of friendship, power, and the search for meaning, which resonate with the novel's exploration of human connection and history.
How does Elif Shafak view the oral storytelling tradition?
Shafak views the oral storytelling tradition as a vital source of untold stories and wisdom that often complement written history. She believes oral culture remembers what written history forgets, making it essential for understanding the full scope of human experience, especially for marginalized groups like women and minorities.
Why did Elif Shafak choose to write in English rather than Turkish?
Shafak chose to write in English to gain a cognitive distance from the political and cultural pressures in Turkey. Writing in English allowed her to explore her heritage and themes of displacement with a sense of lightness and freedom, while also connecting with a broader global audience.
How does Elif Shafak feel about releasing her words into the world?
Shafak passionately believes in the transformative power of literature. She sees releasing her words as setting caged birds free, knowing they will reach readers who may find solace, connection, or inspiration in her stories. She credits books with saving her during her own life struggles and hopes her writing can have a similar impact on others.
What does Elif Shafak read while working on a novel?
While working on a novel, Shafak avoids reading other novels to allow her intuition to guide her writing. Instead, she reads poetry, which helps her focus on the rhythm and melody of language. She enjoys a mix of contemporary and classic poets from both Eastern and Western traditions.
- Elif Shafak's novel, There Are Rivers in the Sky, was a 2024 Summer Reading Guide pick.
- Shafak's works explore universal themes and leverage Turkish storytelling traditions.
- Shafak views literature as transcendental and water-like, guided by curiosity.
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