الشارقة 24:
During the 45th Sharjah International Book Fair, Sudanese author Amir Taj al-Sir delved into his reflections on personal experiences that shaped his literary career, particularly drawing from his early days as a doctor in Port Sudan. He highlighted how everyday realities transformed into narrative elements in his works, with a particular emphasis on his autobiographical novel “Qalam Zinab” (The Pen of Zinab). In a session titled “Qalam Zinab… When Memoir Becomes a Novel,” moderated by Amwaj Abu Hamda, Taj al-Sir explored the intricate relationship between memory, reality, and fiction.
The Birth of a Novel
Taj al-Sir recounted the circumstances surrounding the creation of “Qalam Zinab,” which he wrote in 2010, inspired by events from his early medical career following his internship. He shared an anecdote from his first day at a clinic in a modest area of Port Sudan, where a man walked in, paid a consultation fee, and then presented a gift—a pen—with the words “for Zinab.” This encounter left a lasting impression on him, serving as the novel’s titular reference. The author noted that many characters and events depicted in the book are based on real individuals and situations, albeit with some names altered.
The Role of Memory in Storytelling
Discussing his relationship with memory, Taj al-Sir emphasised the importance of actively training and recalling past details, particularly during moments of reflection before sleep. He aims to remember old events and the people involved, organising these memories for potential future writing. One example he cited was his novel “Ebola 76,” inspired by a conversation with a doctor who experienced the Ebola outbreak in Zaire in 1976. This story remained in his memory for years before evolving into a narrative.
Writing Without Audience Expectations
When it comes to engaging with readers, Taj al-Sir asserted that he does not consciously consider audience expectations while writing. He expresses that he writes based on his mood and creative state rather than trying to accommodate what he perceives readers might want. He clarified that he does not see himself as a popular author whose works are necessarily straightforward, highlighting that some of his stories may not cater to those looking for simple or direct narratives.
Works in Educational Curricula
Concluding his talk, Taj al-Sir expressed his delight in having his works included in educational curricula across various countries. Notably, “Qalam Zinab” is taught to year twelve students in the United Arab Emirates, while “A Southwind” features in the British secondary school syllabus and “The Pulse of Pain” is part of the Moroccan secondary education framework. He extended his gratitude to the UAE for incorporating his novel into its educational system, viewing this recognition as a significant milestone in his literary journey.