Rushdie Haunted by his unholy Ghosts — Page 179
179 A PPENDI X A RUSHDIE’S STAT E M EN TS The following quotes show the progression of Rushdie’s state- ments to the press as the saga around his book developed. February 1989 -If you don’t want to read a book, you don’t have to read it. It’s very hard to be offended by the Satanic verses. ’ -(Satanic Verses) was not an attack on Islam or any other religion. ’ -Almost everything in those sections - the dream sequences - starts from an historical or quasi-historical basis. ’ -Frankly, I wish I’d written a more critical book. . . it seems that Islamic fundamentalism could do with a little criticism right now. ’ -As author of the Satanic Verses, I recognise that Muslims in many parts of the world are genuinely distressed by the publication of my novel. . . we must all be conscious of the sensibilities of others. ’ December 1990 -Although I came from a Muslim family background, I was never brought up as a believer. . . But I am able now to say that I am a Muslim. ’ -I will continue to work for a better understanding of Islam in the world, as I have always attempted in the past. ’ February 1992 -Offence is not, and must never be, a reason for censorship in a free society. ’