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Shafak: From Nomadic Childhood to Literary Star
17 Oct
Summary
- Shafak elected president of the Royal Society of Literature.
- Her latest novel explores Gustave Flaubert's life.
- She has lived in self-imposed exile from Turkey for 11 years.
Elif Shafak, a globally recognized author, recently achieved a significant milestone with her election as president of the Royal Society of Literature. Her literary journey, spanning over 20 years and 14 novels, has established her as a prominent voice in contemporary literature.
Shafak's latest work, "In One Brief Moment All Eternity," is a unique exploration of Gustave Flaubert's life, viewed through the perspectives of multiple women. This novel reflects her love for literature and her empathy for those who feel like outsiders.
Her nomadic childhood, marked by frequent moves across continents, has profoundly shaped her narrative style. Shafak's experiences with depression and anxiety, termed 'hüzün' in Turkish, also inform her creative process, particularly her examination of creativity amidst global crises.
Despite her success, Shafak has maintained a self-imposed exile from Turkey for the past 11 years. She cites the need for freedom of expression and imagination as the primary reasons for her departure, having found a sense of belonging in London.
