Jokha Alharthi
Biography
Jokha Alharthi is an acclaimed Omani writer, born in 1978. She holds a PhD in Classical Arabic Literature from the University of Edinburgh and is currently an associate professor at Sultan Qaboos University. Alharthi made history in 2019 by becoming the first Omani woman to win the Man Booker International Prize for her novel 'Celestial Bodies' (Sayyidat al-Qamar), which was translated into English by Marilyn Booth. Her work intricately explores the complexities of Omani society, particularly focusing on women's lives, the tension between tradition and modernity, and the legacy of historical events like slavery. She is recognized for her lyrical prose and deep psychological insights into her characters.
Selected Thoughts
«Some feelings are like a tree that has grown over years and years. You can't uproot it easily.»
«Love is the only path that leads to a real life.»
«Life has its own way of revealing itself, slowly, like a desert blooming after rain.»
Writing Style
Alharthi's writing style is characterized by its lyrical and evocative prose, often employing multi-generational narratives and non-linear structures. She delves into the psychological depths of her characters, exploring their internal lives and the societal pressures they face. Her work is rich in sensory detail and often utilizes multiple perspectives, creating a panoramic view of Omani life while maintaining a focus on intimate human experiences and the interplay of memory and history.