Renowned British author and playwright Hanif Kureishi recently spoke about the profound changes he has undergone in the past year due to a life-altering incident. Kureishi, 69, shared his reflections during his guest appearance on BBC Radio 4’s Today program, which he also edited. The conversation shed light on the aftermath of a fall he experienced on Boxing Day in Rome last year, resulting in injuries that have significantly impacted his daily life.
The Fall and Life-Altering Injuries
On December 26, 2022, during a walk through Piazza del Popolo to Villa Borghese in the Italian capital, Kureishi took a fall that dramatically altered the course of his life. Despite his initial thoughts, which included a sense of the absurdity of dying in such a manner, Kureishi found himself grappling with the unexpected reality of his own mortality. Waiting for an ambulance, he contemplated calling loved ones to say his goodbyes but refrained at the advice of his partner, Isabella d’Amico.
Loss of Privacy and Sense of Self
In the year following the incident, Kureishi has faced a myriad of challenges, both physical and emotional. Speaking from the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital in London, where he has spent the last year in various stages of recovery, Kureishi expressed the profound impact on his sense of self and privacy. The author, known for works such as "The Buddha Of Suburbia," "Intimacy," and "Mother," revealed that he feels like an "exhibit" in the hospital, surrounded by medical professionals who view him as an object rather than a person.
Adapting to Disability and a New Normal
Kureishi, who is still unable to use his arms or legs, emphasized the challenging journey of adjusting to life as a disabled person. He revealed that the daily tasks, once taken for granted, have become formidable hurdles that he must overcome. The author painted a poignant picture of the loss of bodily autonomy, describing the experience of being changed, washed, poked, and prodded by nurses and doctors as a constant reality.
Struggling with Changes: A Darker World and Lost Sense of Humor
The emotional toll of the incident extends beyond the physical realm. Hanif Kureishi disclosed that he has "lost his sense of humor," and the world, once vibrant, now seems darker. The challenges have also led him to distance himself from activities he once enjoyed, such as listening to music. He explained that the emotional weight of music has become overwhelming, contributing to feelings of sorrow and depression about his situation.
Facing the Future with Generosity and Adaptation
Despite the hardships, Kureishi acknowledged the generosity of those around him, highlighting the support of his son Carlo, who has been instrumental in helping him communicate and document his experiences through a blog. These blog entries are set to be compiled into a book titled "Shattered." Kureishi expressed the need to find a completely new way of writing, relying on dictation as he navigates the challenges of his altered physical capabilities.
A Journey of Reflection and Resilience
As Kureishi faces the prospect of returning home as a disabled person, he reflects on the horrifying yet necessary process of adjusting to a new reality. His openness about the emotional and physical challenges serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit. The acclaimed author, made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2008, is not only grappling with personal transformation but also providing insights into the broader themes of mortality, adaptation, and the unwavering human capacity for creativity and expression in the face of adversity.
