In a thought-provoking interview, Irish novelist Sally Rooney delves into her decision to work with Israeli publisher November Books for the Hebrew translation of her latest book, Intermezzo. This move comes after Rooney's initial reluctance to collaborate with Israeli publishers due to the global boycott movement against Israel. The interview, conducted with Palestinian activist Samir Eskanda, sheds light on Rooney's journey and the broader context of the cultural boycott of Israel.
Rooney's initial hesitation stems from her awareness of the Palestinian call for the cultural boycott of Israel, which aims to isolate and dismantle the Israeli regime's oppressive systems. She was particularly moved by the 2014 Israeli military campaign in Gaza, which resulted in the deaths of over 2,000 people, including hundreds of children. This experience shaped her writing and her commitment to addressing political issues in her work.
The cultural boycott, led by the Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel (PACBI), targets Israeli cultural institutions rather than individuals. It calls for the isolation of entities complicit in Israel's ongoing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, its regional wars, and its decades-old occupation and apartheid regime. Rooney's decision to work with November Books, which meets the boycott's conditions, reflects her commitment to this cause.
Rooney's process of selling translation rights for Intermezzo was careful and deliberate. She kept in touch with PACBI to ensure compliance with the boycott's spirit and letter. November Books, based in Israel, assured her that their publication would not operate in illegal settlements, receive state funding, or compromise the rights of the Palestinian people. This approach aligns with Rooney's belief in the power of art to bring about change and her desire to support institutions that share these values.
The interview highlights the role of radical Israeli institutions like November Books in the cultural boycott. Despite widespread support for Israel's genocide among the Israeli public, very few cultural institutions have met the boycott's conditions. November Books stands out as an exception, and its collaboration with Rooney sends a powerful message of solidarity with the Palestinian struggle.
Rooney's commitment to the boycott has faced backlash, including the removal of her books from Israeli bookstore chains. However, she remains steadfast in her beliefs, drawing strength from the support of the boycott movement. Her experience underscores the importance of individual actions and the power of collective efforts in challenging complicity and promoting accountability.
In conclusion, Sally Rooney's decision to work with November Books for the Hebrew translation of Intermezzo is a significant step in the cultural boycott of Israel. It reflects her commitment to supporting institutions that align with her values and her belief in the power of art to bring about change. As the interview with Samir Eskanda reveals, Rooney's journey is a testament to the resilience of the boycott movement and its ability to foster solidarity with the Palestinian cause.
