☛ Cette critique est aussi disponible en français [➦].

Translated by Gabrielle Baillargeon-Michaud. 

The novel Seven tells the story of Sharifa, an Indian-American woman in her forties who, after a romantic misstep that jeopardized her relationship with her husband, travels with him and their daughter to their country of origin. The trip aims to soothe tensions in her marriage and possibly save it. During her stay, Sharifa delves into her family’s history, particularly curious about her great-great-grandfather and his four wives. Her extended stay in the Bombay region takes place against the backdrop of heated debates surrounding Khatna, a form of female genital cutting, circumcision, or mutilation (FGC/M). Her findings prove to be remarkably timely and pertinent. Torn between two cousins who embody opposing views on the FGC/M issue, Sharifa finds herself deeply entangled in a debate that becomes unexpectedly personal and intimate.

The narrative alternates between the present, from Sharifa’s perspective, and the past, which reveals the daily reality of Abdoolally, her great-great-grandfather. The story’s shifting perspectives allow readers to take a breather from the main narrative, aiding in the digestion and appreciation of its complex themes. Unlike in other fictional works on FGC/M, the author, Farzana Doctor, spares readers from graphic details, making it a less burdensome read. Therefore, the novel addresses FGC/M with immense sensitivity and humanity. Even as she explores taboo and emotionally charged issues, the author handles them with a gentle touch, subtly weaving in moments of humor throughout the narrative. A committed activist involved in networks like We Speak Out and Sahiyo, where she hosts the Dear Maasi segment and provides a platform for FGC/M victims and survivors to discuss sexuality, the author is determined to use her fiction to address these delicate matters in a more nuanced manner. Her activism resonates throughout the novel, especially in the character of Fatima, a cousin of the main character.

This novel is born from the extensive research that the author undertook beforehand. Numerous sub-themes related to FGC/M are discussed, although some are only briefly touched upon (e.g., the frequently-drawn parallel with male circumcision). Nevertheless, the novel’s richness primarily stems from the person who wrote it. Blended into the story are the author’s experiences as an activist, psychotherapist, social worker, survivor, and member of the Dawoodi Bohra community that practices Khatna. Her personal experiences undeniably colour Seven, making the narrative very realistic, powerful, and compelling, challenging established orders and norms.

¹ Many terms are used to refer to genital mutilations. While the World Health Organization and the United Nations advocate for the use of the term mutilation to emphasize the harmful connotation of the act, the author of this cultural critique prefers to use the English acronym FGC/M (female genital cutting, circumcision, or mutilation). This term is more comprehensive, potentially less stigmatizing, and more commonly used in scientific literature (SOGC, 2020; Werunga et al., 2016). The acronym includes the word mutilation without necessarily foregrounding it. Farzana Doctor, the author of the novel, also uses this term in interviews.

Reference :

Author : Farzana Doctor
Title : Seven
Release Date : September 5, 2020 
Publisher : Dundurn Press

This book is available in bookstores for $22.99 and in librairies.