Fresh Air: How A Writer's Life Changed In A Second

Host: Terry Gross
Guest: Hanif Kureishi
Release Date: March 3, 2025

Introduction

In this poignant episode of Fresh Air, host Terry Gross engages in an intimate conversation with acclaimed British writer Hanif Kureishi about his life-altering accident and the subsequent journey chronicled in his new memoir, "Shattered." Kureishi, known for his insightful explorations of contemporary issues through literature and film, opens up about the profound physical and emotional challenges he faced after a fall in 2020 left him paralyzed.

The Accident and Its Aftermath

Hanif Kureishi begins by recounting the harrowing details of his accident:

Hanif Kureishi (04:14): "I felt absolutely flat bang on my face. And I broke my neck or damaged my spine very badly. And when I woke up, I was in a pool of blood and I was unable to move my hands or any other part of my body. I could still speak."

He describes the immediate confusion and terror of waking up injured and disconnected from his body, laying the foundation for the memoir's exploration of identity and survival.

Writing as a Coping Mechanism

Despite his severe injuries, Kureishi found solace and a sense of self through writing. He began dictating "Shattered" to his son just days after the accident, using writing as a means to reconnect with himself:

Hanif Kureishi (06:14): "I was writing a blog every single day about my condition. And that really cheered me up. You know, I had something to do, I had a platform and I was back as a writer, which is what I am."

This daily practice not only helped him process his trauma but also provided a way to communicate his experiences to the world, eventually gaining international attention.

Relationship with Partner and Caregivers

Kureishi delves into the transformation of his relationship with his wife, Isabella, and his dependence on caregivers:

Hanif Kureishi (09:54): "The nature of our relationship was completely transformed by this accident where I am entirely dependent on other people."

He reflects on the emotional strain of being reliant on others for basic needs, expressing feelings of shame and embarrassment while acknowledging the deep love and support from Isabella.

Views on Sexuality Post-Accident

Addressing a more personal aspect, Kureishi discusses how his accident reshaped his perception of sexuality:

Hanif Kureishi (18:42): "Other forms of human intercourse, other forms of human love, other forms of touching and kissing and being with somebody else in a sensual way."

He explains that while his interest in traditional sexual activities diminished, he found new ways to experience intimacy and connection beyond the physical.

Cultural and Racial Context in Healthcare

Kureishi contrasts his experiences in Italian and British hospitals, highlighting the significant role of immigrants in the UK's National Health Service (NHS):

Hanif Kureishi (21:58): "We had to import people from other parts of the world in order to run the NHS."

He criticizes the societal paradox of depending heavily on immigrant labor while simultaneously fostering anti-immigrant sentiments, emphasizing the indispensable contributions of these workers to healthcare.

Family Background and Experiences with Racism

Exploring his heritage, Kureishi shares insights into his father's immigration from Pakistan to Britain and the racial challenges they faced:

Hanif Kureishi (27:50): "Paki was the sort of ubiquitous insult thrown at us."

He recounts the bullying and racism he endured growing up, which fueled his determination to become a writer and voice the experiences of South Asian immigrants in Britain.

Relationship with Salman Rushdie

Kureishi touches upon his friendship with fellow writer Salman Rushdie, particularly after Rushdie's attack in 2020:

Hanif Kureishi (37:04): "He's an amazing man, very, very brave and admirable and a man who's continued to be an important and an amazing writer."

He discusses mutual support between them, though he chose not to read Rushdie's memoir to avoid reliving trauma, demonstrating the depth of their camaraderie.

Fatherhood

Reflecting on his role as a father, Kureishi admits initial struggles with parenting but finds fulfillment as his children grew older:

Hanif Kureishi (33:22): "I found all that a bit sorted. It wasn't much fun. But as I got older, I really started to enjoy them and I enjoy them now as adults."

He emphasizes the joy of engaging in meaningful conversations with his sons, contrasting it with the challenges of his earlier years.

Future Projects and Ongoing Life

Looking ahead, Kureishi shares his enthusiasm for new creative endeavors despite his physical limitations:

Hanif Kureishi (40:37): "I'm writing another book. I'm doing this movie with Luca Gardenino. I'm very excited about what I'm doing..."

He is also involved in a unique dance project titled "Hospital of Accidents," aiming to collaborate with disabled dancers to create a classical dance piece inspired by his experiences.

Conclusion

Hanif Kureishi's candid discussion on Fresh Air offers a profound exploration of resilience, identity, and the transformative power of creativity. "Shattered" stands as a testament to his unwavering spirit and serves as an inspiring narrative for anyone grappling with sudden life changes.

Notable Quotes:

• Hanif Kureishi (05:09): "I was just a body to the nurses, to the doctors. I was in the medical industrial complex..."

• Hanif Kureishi (12:40): "People touch you all the time, strangers come into my house every single day, and they touch me. They turn me over, they talk above me as if I'm not there."

• Hanif Kureishi (17:59): "It's very important in our relationship for both of us, that we both feel, you know, that we are dignified, creative people doing stuff that matters in the world."

• Hanif Kureishi (24:11): "It's a terrible dilemma really, for Britain, because originally our country was almost entirely dependent on the empire... now we're entirely dependent on immigrants..."

• Hanif Kureishi (31:30): "I really started to enjoy the kids when I could have grown up, conversations with them, you know, as they started to get older..."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates Hanif Kureishi's journey from a life characterized by independence to one marked by dependency and resilience. His narrative not only sheds light on personal struggles but also touches upon broader societal issues, making it a compelling listen for fans and new listeners alike.