Young people today have nothing to be hopeful for

 

Hanif Kureishi, the renowned novelist and screenwriter, has expressed his concern that young people today have nothing to be hopeful for. In an interview with the BBC, Kureishi reflected on his own childhood in the 1970s, which was marked by a sense of optimism and possibility. He believes that this sense of hope has been lost among young people today, who are struggling to find lucrative work and afford basic necessities like housing.

Kureishi's semi-autobiographical novel, The Buddha of Suburbia, is being adapted for the stage by the Royal Shakespeare Company and Wise Children. The play, set in the 1970s, follows the story of 17-year-old Karim as he navigates the challenges of adolescence and grapples with his desire to escape the suburbs and immerse himself in the excitement of London.

Director Emma Rice believes that the play offers a message of hope and celebration of the 1970s, particularly its music and fashion. Despite the risk of the play feeling dated, Kureishi and Rice are not concerned about its relevance, with Kureishi stating, "I'm not interested in being relevant." However, they acknowledge that the play's themes of family, friends, sex, theatre, and belonging continue to resonate with audiences today.

Kureishi's own life has been marked by significant challenges in recent years. In December 2022, he suffered life-changing injuries after collapsing and landing on his head. He has been treated in five hospitals and is now working on a new book about his experiences. Despite his physical limitations, Kureishi remains optimistic and has found a new sense of purpose in his work with his sons.

The play's adaptation is a testament to the enduring power of Kureishi's work and his ability to connect with audiences across generations. As Rice notes, "People are desperate for some hope, and that's what our play provides." The play's themes of hope, belonging, and the struggle for identity continue to resonate with audiences today, making it a timely and important production.

Kureishi's experiences have also had a profound impact on his relationships with his sons. He has started writing with them, dictating sentences and rewriting them together. This collaboration has brought them closer together and given Kureishi a new appreciation for the importance of family and relationships.

In a world that can often feel bleak and hopeless, Kureishi's work offers a message of hope and resilience. His play, The Buddha of Suburbia, is a celebration of the human spirit and a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is always the possibility for change and growth. As Kureishi notes, "Hope isn't an empty dream; it means there is a possibility in the world that what you want can happen."