Granta 112 ed by John Freeman, $35
This issue of the British literary journal is dedicated to Pakistan. There are the usual high quality stories and poems, artworks and photographs, but it is the in-depth journalism that really stands out - offering insights into Kashmir, the political situation, and the failed Times Square bombing. Granta 112 pushes
the parameters for excellent writing, providing great reading once again.
In Arithmetic On The Frontier, Declan Walsh, a Guardian correspondent, travels deep into the tribal regions of north-western Pakistan. He follows the campaign trail of reformed warlord Anwar Kamal, who is now an aspiring local politician. On their numerous stops they are greeted by the firing of Kalashnikovs, strange hot meals and many questions: what, specifically, the people want to know, will Kamal do for their sons, for their future. This eye-opening piece offers an intimate inside view of not only the political workings of Pakistan, but also the lives and homes of the people.
The turmoil that has surrounded Kashmir, and continues to do so, is covered in detail by Basharat Peer in his article Kashmir's Forever War. Peer provides clear and accessible background to the ongoing dispute, explaining the British involvement, Kashmir's self-rule, and its subsequent absorption by India. And while Pakistan and India have fought many wars over Kashmir, it becomes glaringly obvious that what the people of the province truly desire is a return to independence. This thoughtful, easy-reading essay provides a solid framework to better understand Kashmir, its people, and the conflict that surrounds it.
Perhaps the most engaging of all the works is The Trials Of Falisal Shahzad, by award-winning novelist Lorraine Adams and Lahore-based journalist Ayesha Nasir. Here, the writers follow the trials and tribulations of Shahzad, who tried to detonate a car bomb in Times Square. It seems that Shahzad's efforts to live the American dream had imploded - he had fallen behind on mortgage repayments, couldn't get a job that would offer a secure future, and started to view all Americans as the enemy. Shahzad's hatred was sparked by US drone attacks in Pakistan, which, he argued, killed indiscriminately - just like the bomb he had planted in the SUV. The writing is fused with well-balanced and researched information while letting readers draw their own conclusions.
Granta shines a light on Pakistan, illuminating its people and their diverse culture. The resulting works are as colourful as they are thought-provoking - as always, there is more than enough here to sate the literary appetite of even the most discerning reader.
Steve Scott is an Auckland reviewer.