Salman Rushdie's Knife received acclaim for its vivid prose and rich narrative complexity, characteristic of his storytelling prowess. Critics praised the novel's imaginative depth and cultural resonance. However, some found its dense storytelling and intricate plot challenging. Overall, Knife is celebrated for its literary merits but may not appeal to all readers due to its complexity.

A reader who would enjoy Knife by Salman Rushdie likely appreciates intricate narratives with richly developed characters and themes of personal and political conflict. Fans of Rushdie's earlier works like Midnight's Children and those who admire the depth of novels such as Arundhati Roy's The God of Small Things will find it compelling.

Published in 2024, Salman Rushdie’s memoir Knife: Meditations After an Attempted Murder recounts the 2022 attack that nearly took his life. The book follows Rushdie’s physical and psychological recovery and expresses his gratitude to those who supported him through it—particularly his wife, Rachel Eliza Griffiths. The young man who attacked him was moved to violence by fundamentalist Islamic propaganda, partially regarding one of Rushdie’s own novels. Knife reasserts Rushdie’s staunch advocation of free speech, defending his and others’ right to speak out against institutions such as religion. This study guide includes descriptions of violence and both physical and emotional trauma.

Mysterious / Unnerving / Suspenseful / Dark / Emotional

**Salman Rushdie**  
An acclaimed author of Kashmiri Muslim heritage who faced significant controversy and threats following the publication of his novel The Satanic Verses. His memoir recounts his experiences, including an attack on his life, and reflects on themes such as the power of love and storytelling.

**Hadi Matar (referred to as "the A.")**  
An assailant who attacked Salman Rushdie, characterized in the memoir as influenced by extremist views. The portrayal of Matar is linked to Rushdie's exploration of the role of religion and serves as part of the memoir's therapeutic process.

**Rachel Eliza Griffiths**  
An accomplished American poet, novelist, and artist who is Salman Rushdie’s fifth wife. Her dedication to Rushdie, especially during his recovery, highlights themes of love and resilience.

**Sameen Rushdie**  
Salman Rushdie’s younger sister, known for her Indian cookery writing and classes. Her support during Rushdie’s recovery underscores their close bond and the memoir's theme of familial love.

**Zafar Rushdie**  
Salman Rushdie’s eldest son from his first marriage, who owns a public relations firm. His upbringing was marked by the impact of the threats against his father, and his support during Rushdie’s recovery is central to themes of love.

**Milan Rushdie**  
Salman Rushdie’s younger son from his third marriage, often engaged with his father's work. His presence during Rushdie’s recovery highlights the deep familial ties and explores the memoir’s emphasis on love.

Study Guide

Book Brief

Explore Knife reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Book Brief Knife

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Overview

Get ready to explore Knife and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Knife Summary and Study Guide

Background

Knife Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “The Angel of Death”

Part 1, Chapters 1-2

Knife Part 1, Chapters 1-2 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 3-4

Knife Part 1, Chapters 3-4 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “The Angel of Life”

Part 2, Chapters 5-6

Knife Part 2, Chapters 5-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 7-8

Knife Part 2, Chapters 7-8 Summary & Analysis

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Key Figures

Knife Key Figures

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Themes

Knife Themes

Index of Terms

Knife Index of Terms

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Important Quotes

Knife Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Knife Essay Topics

Salman Rushdie

Adult

Autobiography / Memoir

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Guide

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Knife: Meditations After an Attempted Murder

Book Brief

Knife

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

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