Mia Cotto: Between History and Imagination
In the world of literature, history is often approached like fine sand. People look at it and see a boundless desert, missing the intricate details and the stories that make up the larger narrative. This is true not just of individual works of historical fiction, but also of the study of history itself. Mia Cotto, a well-known Mozambican novelist, understands this and is determined to explore the details of his country’s history in his latest trilogy.
Cotto’s previous works have been known for their “Magical realism”, blending myths and legends with local customs and history. However, in his latest trilogy titled “Emperor’s Sand Trilogy”, he has taken a different approach. Rather than relying solely on imagination and metaphor, Cotto has chosen to directly confront the history of Mozambique’s colonization by Portugal. This shift from the imaginative to the historical represents a significant evolution in his writing style, demonstrating a sense of responsibility to accurately portray his country’s past.
In an excerpt from a special feature in the Beijing News·Book Review Weekly, Cotto discusses the concept of identity in the context of Mozambique’s “double loss” – first as a former Portuguese colony and later through the civil war that followed independence. He emphasizes the importance of preserving Mozambique’s cultural traditions and emphasizes that the pursuit of identity is an ongoing, open-ended process.
Throughout the interview, Cotto, who describes himself as a “sliced” person due to his diverse heritage and background, shares his thoughts on the boundaries of self-identity and the changing role of globalization. He expresses concern about the negative impact of modernity, particularly regarding the reliance on technology and its potential to contribute to feelings of isolation and disconnection.
Cotto’s views on the ever-evolving landscape of literature and cultural identity provide a unique perspective on the role of storytelling in bridging divisions. He challenges the conventional notions of identity and emphasizes the importance of listening to others’ stories, regardless of cultural or national boundaries.
As a writer and scientist, Cotto’s insights into the intersection of history, imagination, and identity offer a compelling reflection on the complexities of human experience and the broader implications of global connectivity.
The interview presents Mia Cotto as a writer dedicated to exploring the intricacies of Mozambique’s history while embracing the diverse and ever-changing landscape of global literature. His work stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in understanding and connecting with the world around us.