Slimani: Otherness shapes life and writing

Novelist Leïla Slimani, a Moroccan-born immigrant to France, offers a profound reflection on otherness through a collection of five essays. These writings explore how her identity as an immigrant, woman, mother, and writer has been shaped by experiences of being perceived as different.

Slimani critically examines the role of language, a central theme in her work. She discusses how language can create barriers to belonging while also celebrating diverse perspectives. Growing up in a multicultural Moroccan society, she encountered the politics of language early on.

As an advocate for the French language, Slimani has spoken out against its ideological misuse, particularly following events like 9/11 and the 2015 Paris attacks. Her essays serve as a powerful call for linguistic diversity and acceptance.

Slimani gained significant recognition with the 2016 Prix Goncourt, France's highest literary honor, for her novel Lullaby. Her other notable works include 'The Country of Others' and 'Adèle.'