Renowned author Salman Rushdie opens up about his harrowing experience of being stabbed onstage at a literary event in 2022, and how it has shaped his perspective on life and writing. In his recently released book, Knife, Rushdie delves into the attack, the physical and emotional repercussions, and the profound sense of gratitude he has for his recovery.

Rushdie, no stranger to death threats following the publication of his controversial novel, The Satanic Verses in 1988, had a premonitory nightmare just two nights before the incident. In his dream, he found himself in an ancient Roman amphitheater, under attack by a gladiator wielding a spear. While initially considering canceling his appearance at the Chautauqua Institution in upstate New York, Rushdie dismissed his fear as a mere dream and decided to proceed with the event.

The attack took place on August 12, 2022, when a 24-year-old man in the audience rushed the stage and stabbed Rushdie multiple times. The injuries inflicted were severe, severing tendons and nerves in his hand, and causing wounds to his neck, chest, thigh, and eye. Rushdie found himself lying in a "lake of blood," believing that his life was coming to an end.

Miraculously, Rushdie survived the attack, leaving doctors amazed not only by his survival but also by his remarkable recovery. Despite experiencing profound physical and psychological trauma, Rushdie struggles to explain his survival, stating that miracles seem to surround him. He attributes his healing and resilience to the dedication of medical professionals who helped him through his challenging journey.

Writing about the Chautauqua incident in his new book was initially a hesitant decision for Rushdie. However, he recognized that it altered his relationship to the event, transforming him from the person who was stabbed into the one who wrote a book about it. This shift allowed him to regain a sense of authorial control, empowering him through the storytelling process.

Reflecting on the aftermath of the attack, Rushdie has found himself surprisingly free from anger. He believes that dwelling in anger would hinder his ability to move forward and escape being trapped in the traumatic moment. Despite harboring some deep-seated fury towards those involved, including his assailant, Rushdie chooses to focus on the force of love and healing that prevailed through the presence of his wife, Eliza, and writer Rachel Eliza Griffiths.

Rushdie's experience on a ventilator during his recovery was accompanied by hallucinations of palatial architecture constructed entirely of alphabets. This further emphasizes his deep connection to the world of literature and highlights the significance of books in his life.

The attack has transformed Rushdie's understanding of death, granting him familiarity with its presence and an enhanced appreciation for life. He draws inspiration from poet Raymond Carver, who described the additional time he lived as "gravy," a precious and unexpected gift. Rushdie now cherishes each day as a blessing, treasuring the moments he never thought he would have experienced.

Knife serves as a testament to Salman Rushdie's resilience and determination to continue writing stories despite the challenges he has faced. It explores themes of violence and hatred, as well as healing and love, with a focus on the profound impact of the Chautauqua incident. Through his powerful narratives, Rushdie invites readers into his journey of survival, recovery, and embracing the preciousness of life.