In a recent interview with ABC News' "Good Morning America," acclaimed writer Salman Rushdie shared his harrowing experience of a violent attack that lasted a mere 27 seconds but left a profound impact on his life. Rushdie, known for his controversial novel "The Satanic Verses," detailed the incident that took place in Chautauqua, New York, in 2022. He described how he believed he was facing imminent death but was ultimately saved by the brave actions of witnesses.

The attack against Rushdie was allegedly carried out by a 24-year-old man named Hadi Matar, motivated by a Fatwa issued against Rushdie in 1989 by Ruhollah Khomeini, Iran's former supreme leader. The author expressed his gratitude for those who rushed to protect him during the incident, crediting them with saving his life.

In his forthcoming memoir titled "Knife: Meditations After an Attempted Murder," which will be released on Tuesday, Rushdie chronicles the doctors who played a vital role in his recovery, highlighting the heroic efforts of his wife, Eliza, who nursed him back to health and became the central figure in his story. The book not only reflects on the attack but also serves as a testament to their enduring love.

Reflecting on the moments following the attack, Rushdie admitted that he was convinced he was on the brink of death as he lay in a pool of his own blood. However, he expressed immense relief upon realizing that he had survived the ordeal. The writing process for his memoir, Rushdie explained, was a means of regaining control over the narrative surrounding the incident and fighting back against the trauma that he endured.

Rushdie had faced death threats due to "The Satanic Verses" since its publication in 1988. The novel, which provoked considerable controversy for its depiction of the life of the Islamic prophet Muhammad, was deemed blasphemous by Khomeini and led to the issuance of a fatwa against the author. Rushdie admitted that, over the years, he had started to believe that the threats against him had faded and forgotten, leading him to lower his guard.

The acclaimed writer, who had resided in New York City for close to 25 years, had previously participated in numerous public events without incident. The attack in Chautauqua shattered this perception of safety, reminding Rushdie of the enduring dangers he faced as a result of his controversial work.

While much of Rushdie's memoir delves into the shocking assassination attempt, he emphasized that it also serves as a love story. He reflected on the pivotal role his wife played in his recovery and described their marriage as the happiest relationship of his life, expressing profound admiration and gratitude for her unwavering support.

Recounting a premonition he experienced in a "bad dream" prior to the attack, Rushdie described a vivid image of an amphitheater resembling the Colosseum, wherein a gladiator with a spear stabbed downwards while he rolled on the ground. This dream initially caused him unease, but he dismissed it as a mere figment of his imagination until the attack unfolded.

Although Rushdie suffered physical injuries in the attack, including scars on his face and partial blindness in his right eye, he expressed gratitude for his surprisingly good health. The near-death experience briefly prompted him to question his atheist beliefs, admitting a fleeting belief in the supernatural.

The trial for Hadi Matar, the alleged assailant, was initially set for January but was delayed to allow his attorney to review Rushdie's manuscript. Rushdie confirmed his willingness to testify when the trial takes place, confident that he has already shared everything he intends to say in his memoir.

Rushdie's poignant memoir, "Knife: Meditations After an Attempted Murder," not only chronicles the horrific attack that almost claimed his life but also exemplifies the resilience of the human spirit and the power of love and support in times of adversity.