A Journey From Benghazi to London
In his novel ‘My Friends,’ Pulitzer Prize-winning author Hisham Matar captures the poignant tale of Khaled Abd al Hady, a young Libyan man who moves from Benghazi to London. Imbued with rich, nostalgic emotion, Matar seamlessly combines history and fiction to explore themes of home, identity, and belonging.
The Influence of Literature and Learning
Growing up as the son of a school headmaster and a strong-willed mother, Khaled’s love for literature is cultivated by his father’s vast library. His life takes a pivotal turn upon hearing a short story on the radio about a man being eaten by a cat, which clues him into the profound impact of storytelling and education. Inspired by the story, Khaled applies to Edinburgh University and gains acceptance, marking the beginning of his significant journey abroad.
Life Abroad and Political Turbulence
In Edinburgh, Khaled becomes part of a community of Libyan students, all of whom are wary of the Qaddafi regime’s extended reach. The novel reaches a critical juncture during a demonstration in front of the Libyan embassy in London on April 17, 1984, an actual event where Khaled is shot and subsequently branded as a radical. This moment profoundly alters his life, leading him to meet the author of the inspiring short story, Hosam Zowa.
Reflections on Home and Friendship
Khaled’s story is recounted through his reminiscences as he walks around London, visiting locations marked by his experiences. This narrative device allows Matar to imbue each scene with profound, nostalgic emotion. Khaled’s reflections are not just personal but also touch on broader themes of friendship, nation, and the elusive concept of ‘home.’ Through Khaled’s relationships and memories, readers are invited to contemplate the profound questions surrounding identity and belonging.
