Abdulrazak Gurnah — A Voice Across Worlds

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Portrait of Nobel laureate Abdulrazak Gurnah.
Abdulrazak Gurnah — telling stories across continents

With the selection of Abdulrazak Gurnah, he becomes one of the very few Black writers to have received the Nobel Prize in Literature.

Looking at past recipients, this award stands out for the way it recognises a body of work that brings sustained attention to a deeply human concern — the experience of refugees, and the lingering effects of colonialism. Much of Gurnah’s writing is shaped by these themes, exploring displacement, identity, and the emotional distance between cultures and continents.

As is well known, unlike awards such as the Booker Prize, the Nobel Prize in Literature is not given for a single work. It recognises an author’s entire body of work — the depth, consistency, and impact of their writing over time.

When the literature prize was first instituted, it was meant to honour those who had “conferred the greatest benefit on mankind.” Seen in that light, Gurnah’s recognition feels appropriate. Through his writing, he brings into focus lives and experiences that are often overlooked, creating a quiet awareness of the challenges faced by those who live between worlds.

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