Amal El-Mohtar
Biography
Amal El-Mohtar is a Canadian author of speculative fiction, poet, and literary critic, born in Kuwait in 1984 and raised in Ottawa, Canada. Renowned for her lyrical and evocative prose, she often weaves elements of mythology, folklore, and fairy tales into her narratives. El-Mohtar's work explores profound themes through intricate language and rich emotional depth. Beyond her acclaimed short stories and novellas, she is also known for her role as a literary critic, having written the 'Otherworldly' column for The New York Times Book Review, where she championed diverse voices in speculative fiction. Her contributions to the genre have earned her multiple prestigious awards, solidifying her reputation as a significant voice in contemporary fantasy and science fiction.
Selected Thoughts
«What do we do with a feeling that has no name, no language, no word?»
«To be a creature in love with stories is to be in love with change, with transformation, with the endless becoming of the world.»
«A story is a spider's web, gossamer thin and spun to catch.»
Writing Style
Lyrical, poetic, mythic, rich in sensory detail and emotional resonance, often incorporating elements of folklore and fairy tales, with intricate and beautiful prose.