IN LITERATURE, FEW authors have masterfully woven the threads of travel and storytelling quite like Amitav Ghosh. Known for his thought-provoking novels, such as "The Glass Palace," the "Ibis Trilogy, and the recent "Smoke and Ashes," Ghosh takes readers on epic journeys that traverse not only geographical landscapes but also the rich tapestry of cultures and histories. In this exclusive interview, we delve into Ghosh's unique approach to storytelling, his research process, and the profound influence of travel on his work.
> How did the idea of intertwining travel and storytelling come about for "Smoke and Ashes?"
The themes of travel and storytelling have always been intertwined in my work. I have travelled extensively since my childhood, and I have witnessed how travel can open up new worlds and perspectives. I have always admired many writers whose work has been based on travel, such as Norman Lewis, Sayed Mujtaba Ali and Bruce Chatwin.
The theme of travel is perhaps most important in my book, "In An Antique Land," where I explore the story of an Indian slave called Bomma who was taken to Egypt in the 12th century. I wanted to know more about his journey, and I also wanted to explore how his story could be told. The best way to do this was to intertwine his story with my journey to Egypt.
> How does "Smoke and Ashes" convey the complexity of the impact of the opium trade?
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