Salman Rushdie’s new memoir, “Knife,” recounts the horrifying experience of being attacked and almost killed by a young man with a knife in 2022. Rushdie, who was left blind in one eye as a result of the attack, wasted no time in reliving the day he thought might be his last. Despite the trauma, Rushdie’s spirit remains as strong as ever in this brief work that documents his journey from lying in his own blood to returning to the same stage 13 months later with a sense of “wounded happiness.”
The memoir also delves into Rushdie’s life beyond the attack, including his meeting and marrying poet Rachel Eliza Griffiths. Rushdie dedicates a chapter to their love story and Griffiths’ unwavering support during his recovery. Additionally, Rushdie mourns the loss of his dear friend and fellow author Martin Amis, who was gravely ill with cancer at the time of Rushdie’s attack. The memoir pays tribute to Amis and their close friendship as part of a circle of talented British writers.
Rushdie’s charged assailant, Hadi Matar, also known as “The A.,” is a central figure in the memoir. Rushdie imagines a dialogue with Matar, expressing a desire to understand his motivations and feelings in the aftermath of the attack. Despite facing his would-be killer, Rushdie finds solace in the outpouring of support and messages from friends, world leaders, and fans, including President Joe Biden. These messages help alleviate Rushdie’s sense of loneliness and affirm the importance of his work in sharing ideas without fear.
Throughout “Knife,” Rushdie reflects on the profound impact of the attack on his life and work. The memoir captures his resilience and determination to continue living a full and creative life despite the trauma he endured. Rushdie’s return to normalcy, attending events like the annual PEN America gala, symbolizes his healing process and inner strength. By sharing his story with readers, Rushdie invites us to consider the power of forgiveness, understanding, and the human capacity for growth and resilience in the face of adversity.
