It is so easy to erase a life from the surface of the sea to make it one less migrant, a definitive African, a stranger on the Grand Canal. An ease that Khalid Lyamlahy, a French-Moroccan academic, writer and literary critic, does not know.
Carefully observing his geographical journey (yesterday morocco, then france and Great Britain, today the EU) something tells me that he knows a lot about it and about the notion of‘otherness (read his first work A foreign novel) and on the notion of humanity, read his Evocation of a memorial in Venice which earned him the special mention of the Prix des Cinq Continents de la Francophonie. What can writng do to express identity? Does the writer have the power to transform your residence permit or your migrant face into a schedule? A thousand questions for an author Unique African presence.
– How has Khalid Lyamlahy’s background influenced his literary exploration of identity and migration?
Interview with Khalid Lyamlahy: Navigating Otherness through Literature
Q: Thank you for joining us today, Khalid. Your journey has taken you from Morocco to France, Great britain, and now the EU. How has this geographical transformation influenced your understanding of identity and otherness?
A: thank you for having me. My geographical journey has deeply shaped my viewpoint on identity. Each location carries its own societal narratives and perceptions about ‘the other.’ In Morocco, my identity was intertwined with a rich cultural heritage, while in France and the UK, I encountered the complexities of being seen as a foreigner. This led me to explore how geographies influence identity, particularly in the context of migration.
Q: In your acclaimed book, A Foreign Novel, you delve into the complexities of otherness. How do you think literature can express and redefine identity?
A: Literature serves as a powerful medium to explore and articulate identities. It gives voice to experiences that are frequently enough marginalized or erased, particularly in the context of migration. Through storytelling, we can challenge stereotypes and invite readers to empathize with the human experience behind the label of ‘migrant.’ For many, the narrative of identity can transform from one of marginalization to one of festivity.
Q: You mention the ease with which society can erase migrant identities. How can writers combat this narrative?
A: Writers have a unique obligation and power. We can craft stories that illuminate the realities of migration rather than reduce individuals to statistics or ‘otherness.’ By telling the stories of those who have journeyed across borders, we showcase the shared humanity that connects us all, challenging dehumanizing narratives. this is particularly important in a time when migration is often seen through a lens of fear or negativity.
Q: Your work,Evocation of a Memorial in Venice,earned you a special mention from the Prix des Cinq Continents de la Francophonie. What message does this recognition send about the importance of immigrant narratives in literature?
A: This recognition highlights the increasing value of immigrant narratives in contemporary literature. It signals a growing awareness that these stories enrich the literary landscape and reflect the realities of our globalized world. It encourages writers to continue exploring these themes, as they resonate with a wide audience, fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding migration and identity.
Q: For aspiring writers who want to address themes of identity and migration in their work, what practical advice would you offer?
A: My advice would be to listen—really listen. Engage with diverse communities, understand their experiences, and reflect on your own. Explore authentic narratives and strive to depict the multifaceted nature of identity. It’s also vital to read widely within this genre; understanding how others approach these themes can inspire and inform your writing. don’t be afraid to use your voice—your unique perspective is invaluable.
Q: Thank you, Khalid. Your insights underscore the power of writing in advocating for marginalized identities and transforming public perception. Before we conclude, what do you hope readers take away from your work?
A: I hope readers gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate narratives behind the idea of ’migrant.’ Each story represents a complex individual journey filled with hopes, dreams, and struggles. Ultimately,I aspire for my work to foster empathy and a sense of shared humanity,reminding us that every person has a story worth telling.
Conclusion: Khalid Lyamlahy’s exploration of identity through literature sheds light on the critical role writers play in addressing and reworking narratives around migration and otherness. His work encourages both readers and writers to embrace the richness of diverse experiences, fostering understanding and empathy in a world often divided by borders.