Finding the Right Title: A Journey of Discovery
While working on my second novel, Australiana, I faced significant challenges in selecting a title that encapsulated its essence. The narrative weaved through various local stories, complemented by a collection of essays and largely unpublished poems. Eventually, I chose to release the essay separately under the title Conquest of Land and Dreams, while the poems reside in an unpublished series titled Dispossession.
The initial title I considered for the novel was “My Face is Nameless,” inspired by the works of James Baldwin. However, I felt this title fell short in representing the multifaceted nature of the book. In my quest for a more fitting title, I discovered an enlightening interview with renowned author Don DeLillo, known for his works Cosmopolis, Underworld, Libra, and White Noise. In the interview, he explained that he named his debut novel Americana to reflect a comprehensive narrative of his homeland, turning the title into a statement of intent.
This revelation led me to contemplate the title Australiana, thinking that if it resonated with DeLillo’s vision, it might suit my work as well. Yet, I hesitated; as the daughter of Lebanese immigrants, I questioned whether I could rightfully bestow this title upon my book. My narrative delves into the experiences of local communities grappling with the realities of bushfires, droughts, and floods. Ultimately, I concluded that the title was appropriate, as it captures the essence of the nation and its diverse narratives.
At that time, I found myself reflecting on Australia’s portrayal in broader global narratives. All countries have stories that depict positive qualities such as courage and heroism, often glossing over darker chapters involving violence. What, then, constitutes the Australian story? Is it centered on camaraderie and equitable relationships, or does it encompass a more complex reality?
When it comes to the narrative surrounding immigration, the prevailing sentiment seems to depict immigrants as grateful contributors to the economy who, under no circumstances, should draw attention to their struggles. As an immigrant or the child of one, achievements like winning awards or curing diseases may earn me the title of ‘Australian.’ However, in moments of adversity, my belonging can feel conditional, quickly overshadowed by scrutiny and blame.
As a fiction writer, the announcement of stringent immigration policies by politicians often prompts me to envision dystopian realities. This discourse categorizes individuals based on their country of origin, creating a hierarchy of desirability influenced by cultural background, appearance, and skin color. Beneath the surface of these stringent policies often lies an impulse towards simplification, favoring the classification of individuals into binary groups of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ immigrants.
This hypothetical dystopia relies on immigration screening technologies that streamline the sorting of people. A simple dichotomy becomes the norm, making it far easier to label individuals than to grapple with the underlying complexities of social issues. Why does a wealthy nation like Australia face housing crises and rising homelessness? Why do issues of human rights, dignity, and freedom remain unaddressed for many? These questions remain uncomfortable yet vital, challenging the simplistic narratives often preferred by policymakers.
Yumna Kasab, a notable voice in contemporary literature, won the inaugural Parramatta Literary Award. Her published works include The House of Youssef, Politica, The Lovers, and The Theory of Everything. Her forthcoming book, Goodbye, My Love, is set to release at the end of April, promising to offer further insight into her keen observations on culture and identity.
