It is no understatement that 2023 has been a tumultuous year of strife and tensions across the world. It has upended many comfortable notions that we had for a while: the benefits of economic stability and the hope of a peaceful world.
To understand the present world and its conflicts, whether environmental, human or cultural, we fall back, as always, on books.
Here are some bestsellers that help us to contextualise the events around us on a broad range of topics and ideas.
Although not recently written, some of these books have been reprinted on public demand.
Some are couched in moving fiction while others use history, philosophy and even motivation to make sense of our world today.
‘The Hundred Years’ War on Palestine’ is Rashid Khalidi’s magnum opus – a sweeping account of an ongoing war contextualised through original manuscripts, letters and official documents.
It is a moving and personal account of a tragic conflict that has been traced through the last century and more.
Amitava Ghosh’s ‘The Nutmeg’s Curse: Parable for a Planet in Crisis’ outlines the way in which human greed leads to violence, all of it set in colonial times.
It is a much needed reminder, if one is needed, of the terrible price humans pay to satisfy our daily needs.
Historian Mary Beard’s latest non-fiction ‘Emperor of Rome’ is another powerful work from a world renowned authority on the Roman Empire. It outlines the way in which power was effectively used to rule over vast areas of land, while also focusing on the common citizens of the empire.
Jhumpa Lahiri’s ‘Whereabouts’ is characteristic of the author’s sparse and powerful prose. It explores identity, belonging and what it takes to grapple with one’s place in the world. Written in Italian and translated by the author herself into English, its sparse prose reminds us of Hemingway’s style.
In such tense times, looking inward and seeking solace is essential for many of us. ‘Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life’ by Héctor Garcia and Francesc Miralles encourages us all to find our own reason and purpose in life. Using this Japanese philosophy, it points to practical ways through which to live a purposeful life.
Matt Haig’s ‘The Comfort Book’ consists of “reflections on hope, survival and the messy miracle of being alive. It is a strange paradox, that many of the clearest, most comforting life lessons are learned while we are at our lowest”.
A collection of inspirational moments, it is uplifting and motivational at the same time.
Jokha Al Harthi’s ‘Narinjah: The Bitter Orange Tree’ is a loving testament to the traditional way of life in Oman in all its complexity.
The memories of this life intersperse with the modern world, making the meeting of both thoughtful and full of possibilities.
As every year, we see the one on its way out with memories, regrets and hope. Falling back on books which offer solace, meaning and help us to understand our world better can be one of the most productive exercises of all.
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