25
Jan 2025
10:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Quoz Arts Fest 2025
Alserkal Avenue, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Did you know that the threads of Jnanpith Award Winner author's fiction and non-fiction are woven with some of the most pressing concerns of our times? From the fragile bond between humans and nature to the lingering impacts of colonialism, Wild Fictions unravels a collection of essays that span 25 years of reflective thought and powerful storytelling.
This momentous occasion marks the third time the acclaimed author will launch his work at the Royal Opera House. Through vivid insights and observations, he delves into the spaces we live in, how we shape them, and the fragile balance between people and nature. From the story of the clove trade to the richness of Bengal’s mangrove forests, this collection highlights how empathy and storytelling can help us understand history and reconnect with our world.
Join us for an unforgettable evening of literature and dialogue, as we celebrate a master storyteller's exploration of the world we share and the stories that define us.
Amitav Ghosh was born in Calcutta, and grew up in India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka; he studied in Delhi, Oxford and Alexandria. He is the author of several acclaimed works of fiction and non-fiction including The Shadow Lines, The Glass Palace, The Hungry Tide, the Ibis Trilogy (comprising the novels Sea of Poppies, River of Smoke and Flood of Fire), The Great Derangement, Gun Island, The Nutmeg’s Curse, Jungle Nama, The Living Mountain and Smoke and Ashes. Amitav Ghosh’s work has been translated into more than thirty languages. He has been awarded and felicitated across the world. In 2019 Foreign Policy magazine named him one of the most important global thinkers of the past decade. The same year, the Jnanpith Award, India’s highest literary honour, was conferred on him: he was the first English-language writer to receive it. In 2024, he was awarded the prestigious Erasmus Prize for his writings on the planetary crisis and climate change.
Read moreAmitav
Ghosh's Writing Style
Amitav
Ghosh's writing is distinguished by its intricate exploration of the
relationship between humans and the environment, reflecting a profound
understanding of how cultural contexts shape our interactions with nature. His
works delve deeply into historical narratives, blending entertainment with
education to reveal the complexities of various cultures and their histories.
Ghosh’s meticulous research is evident in the attention to detail that informs
his storytelling, ensuring that each setting and character feels authentic.
A hallmark of Ghosh’s literary vision is his ability to offer a global perspective. His works address universal themes—ranging from colonialism to migration—while simultaneously incorporating an ecocritical focus that highlights environmental consciousness. This dual approach invites readers to engage with pressing ecological issues through a cultural lens.
Moreover, Ghosh’s linguistic mastery enhances his narratives, as he deftly blends multiple languages and dialects. This enriches the voices of his characters and reflects the diverse tapestry of human experience. Such stylistic choices deepen the impact of his stories, making them relatable to readers from different cultural backgrounds. Ultimately, Amitav Ghosh's literary vision transcends geographical boundaries, fostering a deeper awareness of our shared responsibility towards both humanity and the environment.
Themes Explored in Wild Fiction
"Wild Fiction," a
collection of essays by acclaimed author Amitav Ghosh, spans over 25 years of
his literary journey and addresses themes that remain as relevant today as when
they were first written. Ghosh’s exploration of cultural identity and
postcolonialism provides valuable insights into the complexities of belonging
in an ever-changing world.
"Wild Fiction" is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of modern issues through the lens of literature. Ghosh’s ability to intertwine historical context with contemporary relevance encourages readers to reflect critically on their perspectives, fostering intellectual growth. Through travel narratives and thought-provoking conversations, he challenges us to consider how our past shapes our present. The collection invites readers on a journey of both personal growth and collective healing, offering a renewed connection with the landscapes to which we all belong.
Other Notable Works by Amitav Ghosh
Amitav Ghosh is a celebrated author known for his rich storytelling and
profound exploration of themes such as history, culture, and the intricate
relationship between nature and human society. His debut novel, The Circle of Reason, introduces readers
to his unique narrative style, blending social commentary with engaging
characters.
One of Ghosh's most notable works is The Shadow Lines, which intricately weaves personal memories with historical events, highlighting the complexities of identity and borders. In In an Antique Land, Ghosh blends elements of travel writing with anthropological insights, offering a captivating glimpse into the past while reflecting on contemporary issues.
The Calcutta Chromosome explores the intersection of science and colonialism while Dancing in Cambodia & Other Essays presents a collection that showcases Ghosh’s keen observations on culture and politics. His Ibis Trilogy—comprising Sea of Poppies, River of Smoke, and Flood of Fire—tells the story of the opium trade in 19th-century India, vividly portraying historical events through multifaceted characters.
In his non-fiction work, The Great Derangement: Climate Change & the Unthinkable, Ghosh addresses urgent environmental issues and examines humanity’s fraught relationship with nature. Through his diverse body of work, Amitav Ghosh not only captivates readers but also encourages them to reflect on their place within the broader tapestry of history and ecology.
