Sheds light on childhood, class divide
Novelist Ali Hussein Obaid talks formative years
KARBALA—Ali Hussein Obaid, a renowned storyteller and novelist, has revealed plans to release the first installment of his memoirs, “Before Memory Fades: Memoirs Prone to Oblivion.” The General Union of Iraqi Writers and Authors is set to publish the work, which delves into Obaid’s formative years and youth. The narrative pays particular attention to the socioeconomic disparities between the impoverished and the affluent.
Born in Babil and a current resident of Karbala’s Al-Nasr neighborhood, Obaid has authored eight works, including novels, short story collections, and critical books. His bibliography spans from his debut novel “Rituals of Transcendence” in 2000 to his latest short story collection, “Maroukha’s Symphony,” released in 2023.
In an interview with 964media, Obaid shared insights into his forthcoming book. The memoir, narrative in style, is poised for release in the first half of the year and unfolds across 18 sections, each bearing a distinct title. This volume, the first in a trilogy, focuses on Obaid’s childhood and early youth.
Obaid emphasizes the importance of capturing memories before they fade or are lost to diseases like Alzheimer’s. The memoirs aim to document these moments while they remain vivid. The memoir covers his journey through childhood and adolescence, his educational experiences, and the class differences he witnessed. By contrasting the academic and creative achievements of the less fortunate against those of the wealthy, Obaid presents compelling stories from the lives of impoverished families.
Highlighting the value of autobiographical writing, Obaid noted, “Every life is a tapestry of experiences that, once shared, can enlighten others. Autobiographies offer warnings from past mistakes and celebrate successes, benefiting the broader community.” He also touched on the dignity and sense of contribution that comes from sharing one’s life story, offering something of significance and merit to the world.