Salman Rushdie: Freedom is Essential for Literature

Acclaimed author Salman Rushdie has underscored the fundamental link between freedom and literature, stating that "for literature to exist, there has to be freedom." He made these remarks during a public engagement with readers at the Coliseu do Porto, as part of the Babell festival in Porto, Portugal. Rushdie, who has faced threats and violence for his work, including a near-fatal stabbing in 2022, highlighted the importance of free expression in his creative process. "Freedom of expression in my literature is something very important, because without freedom it is not possible to do the work," he told EFE news agency. The author of "The Satanic Verses" downplayed his own stature, describing himself simply as someone who "sits in a room and writes stories." He also shared that he is actively engaged in writing his next book, confirming it will be a novel, though he offered no further details about the project. During his visit to Porto, Rushdie met with his Portuguese editor, Cecilia Andrade of Dom Quixote. He arrived two days prior to attend the Babell festival, organized by Fundação Livraria Lello, which collaborates with EFE for content dissemination. Rushdie has been a significant draw for festival attendees, with many fans approaching him for book dedications. Reflecting on his last visit to Portugal 25 years ago, Rushdie praised Porto and the Babell festival, recognizing their value in connecting writers with the public.

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for literature to exist, there has to be freedom.