Nobel Laureate 1991 Nadine Gordimer

Nobel Laureate 1991 Nadine Gordimer 

Nadine Gordimer (1923–2014) was a South African writer and political activist who explored apartheid's impacts. She received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1991. Her works, like "Burger's Daughter," were often banned under apartheid. Active in the anti-apartheid movement, she joined the banned ANC and advised Nelson Mandela on his 1964 defense speech. 

Short Biography 

Nadine Gordimer was born on November 20, 1923, in Springs, a small mining town outside Johannesburg. She was the daughter of Jewish immigrants. 

Gordimer attended a convent school for her early education but was largely self-taught, devouring books from an early age. 

She briefly attended the University of the Witwatersrand, where she began to engage with a wider range of political and social issues, though she left without completing her degree. 

Her writing career began in earnest in her teens when she published her first story, "Come Again Tomorrow," in a Johannesburg magazine at the age of 13. 

Her first collection of short stories, "Face to Face," appeared in 1949. However, it was her novels that brought her international acclaim. 

She gets married to Gerald Gavron in 1949 which ended within 3 years. In 1954, she married Reinhold Cassirer and it lasted until his death from emphysema in 2001. 

Her key novels are: "The Lying Days" (1953), "Burger's Daughter" (1979), "July's People" (1981), "The Conservationist" (1974) etc. 

In 1991, she was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature and was awarded the Booker Prize in 1974 for her novel "The Conservationist. 

Other notable accolades include the Booker Prize for "The Conservationist" and the French Legion of Honor. 

In 2006, she was attacked in her home by robbers, but she refused to move into a gated complex despite friends' advice. 

She identified as an atheist but felt she had a religious temperament. She published more than 30 books, including novels, short stories, and essays. 

She passed away on July 13, 2014, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence both literature and social justice movements. 

Her Best Two Works 

Nadine Gordimer's literary career includes many acclaimed works, but two of her best-known novels are "Burger's Daughter" and "July's People." 

Burger's Daughter (1979) 

"Burger's Daughter" is a political and historical novel that tells the story of Rosa Burger, the daughter of a white anti-apartheid activist who dies in prison. 

The novel explores Rosa's struggle with her identity and her father's legacy, set against the backdrop of apartheid South Africa. 

The novel delves into the complexities of living in the shadow of a famous activist parent and the burdens and expectations that come with such a legacy. 

It provides a vivid portrayal of the racial tensions and injustices in South Africa during apartheid. 

"Burger's Daughter" was banned in South Africa shortly after its publication but later unbanned.  

July's People (1981) 

"July's People" is a speculative novel set during a fictional civil war in South Africa, which results in the collapse of the apartheid regime. 

The story follows a white liberal family, the Smales, who are forced to flee Johannesburg and seek refuge with their black servant, July, in his rural village. 

The novel explores the dynamics of power and dependency as the Smales become reliant on July for their survival, reversing the typical master-servant relationship. 

It delves into the cultural and social dislocation experienced by the Smales as they navigate life in July's village. 

"July's People" was praised for its bold narrative and thought-provoking examination of race and power. The novel was temporarily removed from South African school reading lists in 2001, sparking controversy and debate. 

Both "Burger's Daughter" and "July's People" highlight Gordimer's profound engagement with the political and social issues of her time. 

Her Contributions 

As a Nobel Prize-winning author, her novels and short stories vividly depicted the harsh realities of apartheid, earning international acclaim and bringing global attention to South Africa's struggles. 

Her complex characters and incisive narratives critiqued the racial injustices of the time. Beyond literature, Gordimer was an active anti-apartheid advocate, a member of the ANC, and a supporter of Nelson Mandela. 

She resisted censorship, supported freedom of expression, and later became involved in HIV/AIDS awareness. 

Gordimer also mentored emerging writers and participated in global human rights advocacy, leaving a lasting legacy as both a literary icon and a tireless champion for justice. 

Criticisms 

Nadine Gordimer faced criticism for perceived paternalism in her post-apartheid advocacy, controversial portrayals in Ronald Suresh Roberts' unauthorized biography, and claims of fabrication in some autobiographical writings. 

Her views on the Israel-Palestine conflict and occasional criticisms of ANC policies also sparked debate. 

Additionally, her novel July's People was temporarily removed from school reading lists for being labeled as patronizing by a provincial education department. 

Conclusion 

Despite criticisms, Nadine Gordimer's impact as a Nobel Prize-winning author and anti-apartheid activist remains profound, challenging societal norms and advocating for justice through her powerful writing and activism. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 

How did Nadine Gordimer contribute to the anti-apartheid movement? 

Gordimer was actively involved in the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa. She supported the African National Congress (ANC), edited Nelson Mandela's speeches, and used her writing to critique apartheid policies and advocate for change. 

What awards did Nadine Gordimer win? 

Gordimer received numerous awards for her literary contributions, including the Booker Prize in 1974 (for a special commendation) and the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1991, which recognized her significant impact on literature and society. 

Was Nadine Gordimer involved in other social causes besides apartheid? 

Yes, Gordimer was involved in various social causes, including advocacy for freedom of expression, resistance against censorship, and later, raising awareness about HIV/AIDS in South Africa. 

What was Nadine Gordimer's stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict? 

Gordimer's views on the Israel-Palestine conflict were a subject of controversy. She was criticized by some for not fully aligning with certain Palestinian perspectives, leading to debates over her political positions and activism.