Renowned French-Algerian writer Kamel Daoud is making headlines again. After receiving the prestigious Goncourt Prize for his latest novel “Houris”, the author was embroiled in a controversy that is currently shaking Algeria. A woman, Saâda Arbane, accuses Daoud of using her personal story without her consent as the basis for the plot of his book. However, Kamel Daoud categorically refutes these allegations and claims that his novel is a work of fiction that is inspired by the dark times of Algeria without being based on specific real events.
In an op-ed published by “Le Point”, Kamel Daoud vigorously defends himself against the accusations made by Saâda Arbane. He emphasizes that there is no direct link between the tragedy experienced by the woman and the main character of his book. The writer highlights the fictional nature of his work and claims that he seeks to explore the depths of Algeria’s dark years through a creative lens.
The accusation that Kamel Daoud’s wife violated medical confidentiality by disclosing personal information to the author for his novel is also disputed by the latter. Daoud insists that the scope of his book goes far beyond any individual story and aims to address more universal themes related to the civil war in Algeria.
Kamel Daoud’s reaction reveals a mixture of emotions, between the pain of seeing his artistic integrity called into question and the feeling of having to defend his work against unfounded attacks. The novelist also expresses his disappointment about the possible manipulation that Saâda Arbane could be subjected to, thus distracting her from the real problem that lies in the tragic events of Algeria’s history.
In conclusion, Kamel Daoud aspires for his country to be able to confront its demons of the past and to undertake a process of healing and reconciliation. His commitment to historical truth and his refusal to be drawn into personal quarrels demonstrate the depth of his artistic vision and his commitment to the socio-political issues of his country.