Tehran Book Fair 2018: A Celebration of Iranian Literature and Controversy Surrounding The Last Journey
The Tehran International Book Fair (TIBF) has been a cornerstone of Iran’s cultural landscape for decades, attracting renowned authors, publishers, and book enthusiasts from across the globe. This annual event, held in May at the sprawling Imam Khomeini Mosalla, transforms into a vibrant hub of literary discourse, showcasing the breadth and depth of Iranian literature. The 2018 edition was no exception, featuring an impressive array of titles, workshops, and panel discussions. Yet, amidst the intellectual fervor, a particular event sparked controversy and ignited heated debates – the unveiling of Kianoush Kayani’s novel “The Last Journey.”
Kianoush Kayani is a rising star in Iran’s literary scene. Born in Tehran in 1985, he studied literature at the University of Tehran and quickly gained recognition for his sharp prose and insightful portrayal of contemporary Iranian life. His previous works, including “The Whispering Walls” and “Under a Crimson Sky,” explored themes of social alienation, political disillusionment, and the search for identity.
Kayani’s “The Last Journey” marked a departure from his earlier novels. It delved into a controversial topic – the plight of Iranian refugees fleeing persecution in neighboring countries. The story followed the harrowing journey of a young woman named Zahra, who escapes Iran with her family seeking asylum in Europe. Through Zahra’s eyes, Kayani painted a poignant and unflinching portrait of the refugee experience, highlighting the dangers they face on their perilous routes and the emotional toll of displacement.
However, the novel’s publication ignited a firestorm of controversy within Iranian society. Some critics lauded Kayani for his courage in addressing a sensitive topic often shrouded in silence. They praised his nuanced portrayal of Zahra’s struggles and the moral dilemmas she confronts along her journey.
Others vehemently opposed the book, accusing Kayani of tarnishing Iran’s image by portraying its citizens as refugees fleeing oppression. Conservative elements within society argued that the novel undermined national pride and legitimized criticism of the government’s policies towards minorities. The backlash was swift and intense.
Religious leaders condemned “The Last Journey” from pulpits, urging Muslims to boycott it. Protests erupted outside bookstores selling the novel, leading to clashes between demonstrators and police. Calls for Kayani’s arrest and the banning of his book reverberated through state-controlled media outlets.
Caught in the crossfire, the organizers of TIBF found themselves facing a difficult dilemma. While upholding freedom of expression was paramount to the fair’s ethos, they also needed to ensure the safety of participants and maintain public order. Ultimately, they chose a middle ground, allowing Kayani’s novel to be displayed but prohibiting him from attending any book signings or promotional events.
The controversy surrounding “The Last Journey” underscored the deep political and social divides within Iran. It highlighted the ongoing struggle between progressive voices seeking greater openness and those advocating for stricter adherence to traditional values. While Kayani’s novel was eventually allowed to remain in circulation, its publication served as a potent reminder of the limitations on artistic freedom in a country grappling with complex internal challenges.
The impact of “The Last Journey” extended beyond Iran’s borders, sparking international discussions about censorship, the refugee crisis, and the role of literature in addressing sensitive social issues.
Here’s a table summarizing key points from the event:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Title of Book | The Last Journey |
| Author | Kianoush Kayani |
| Genre | Literary Fiction |
| Theme | Refugee Experience, Social Commentary |
| Controversy | Accusations of tarnishing Iran’s image and undermining national pride |
| Outcome | TIBF allowed the book to be displayed but prohibited author events |
The 2018 Tehran Book Fair proved to be a microcosm of the broader societal tensions in Iran. While celebrating the vibrant tapestry of Iranian literature, it also laid bare the ongoing debate over freedom of expression and the delicate balance between cultural preservation and social progress. Kayani’s “The Last Journey” became a lightning rod for controversy, prompting introspection and fueling dialogue on issues that continue to resonate deeply within Iranian society.