by InTrieste
Salman Rushdie, the acclaimed Indian-born British author, delivered a pointed critique on Thursday aimed at Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, urging her to “be less childish and grow up” amidst a backdrop of controversy.
Speaking at the renowned Salone del Libro book fair in Turin, Rushdie addressed a recent incident involving Meloni’s libel conviction against Italian writer and journalist Roberto Saviano. The conviction stemmed from Saviano’s description of the right-wing leader as a “bastard,” a remark made during a televised interview in December 2020. Saviano’s comment was prompted by Meloni’s staunch immigration stance, particularly in light of the tragic death of a six-month-old infant from Guinea in a shipwreck en route to Italy.
Despite Meloni’s legal victory, Rushdie challenged the thin-skinned nature of modern politicians, emphasizing the necessity for them to endure public scrutiny and criticism. “At my personal risk, I have to say that politicians should grow a thicker skin because a politician today, as well as having great power, also has great authority,” Rushdie stated during the discussion in Turin. He further defended Saviano’s right to express dissent, even if it included the use of harsh language.
The acclaimed author’s appearance in Turin is not without its own weighty backdrop. Scheduled to share the stage with Saviano on Friday evening, Rushdie’s presence underscores his solidarity with the embattled journalist, who has lived under police protection since 2006 due to threats related to his exposé on the Neapolitan Camorra in his book, “Gomorrah.”
Rushdie’s own experiences with persecution add depth to his commentary. Targeted for years due to his novel “The Satanic Verses,” which some in the Muslim community deemed blasphemous, Rushdie suffered a brutal attack during a cultural event in New York two years ago. The assault left him with severe injuries, including the loss of sight in one eye.
Now in Turin to promote his latest memoir, “Coltello” (Knife), Rushdie reflects on his harrowing ordeal and the broader implications for free expression and artistic freedom.
The Salone del Libro, established in 1988, stands as a beacon of literary celebration in Europe. Its 2024 edition, running from May 9th to 13th, continues to serve as a vital platform for intellectual discourse and cultural exchange.
