In her acceptance speech for the freedom to publish prize at the British Book awards, Margaret Atwood highlighted the alarming threats to words and free expression today, likening the current atmosphere to that of the 1930s and 40s due to rising political and religious polarization. She emphasized the significance of words as powerful tools. The ceremony also acknowledged notable works, including the book 'Patriot' by Alexei Navalny, illustrating the continued importance of truth and integrity in literature and society amid growing challenges.
"Words are our earliest human technology, like water they appear insubstantial, but like water they can generate tremendous power," said Atwood, emphasizing the current threats to language.
Atwood expressed concern that the world feels more like the 1930s and 40s now than it did over the last 80 years, highlighting increasing political polarization.
Yulia Navalnaya accepted the award for her husband, stating, "It tells us that truth still matters, that integrity matters, that words can break through even the hardest walls."
The freedom to publish award was created to address the escalating dangers faced by writers, publishers, and booksellers in today's context, as emphasized in Atwood's speech.
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