Tabakovic: "Ankommen" - A Word He Hates
Tabakovic, the renowned German-Bosnian author, has become known for his powerful and often raw portrayal of immigrant experiences. His latest novel, "Ankommen," delves into the complexities of finding one's place in a new world, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and the struggle for recognition. But for Tabakovic, the very word "Ankommen" – to arrive, to settle in – holds a deeply personal and complex significance.
A Word Laden with History:
For Tabakovic, "Ankommen" carries a heavy weight of history. He was born in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a region scarred by war and displacement. Witnessing the forced migration and the trauma of leaving behind everything he knew, he understands the multifaceted nature of arriving in a new place. It's not just a physical journey, but a psychological and emotional transformation.
Beyond the Physical:
Tabakovic argues that "Ankommen" goes beyond the simple act of physically reaching a destination. It's about the ongoing struggle to find one's footing in a foreign culture, navigating unfamiliar customs and expectations. It's about building a new life while grappling with the ghosts of the past, the memories of a lost homeland.
The Pain of Acceptance:
Tabakovic's aversion to the word "Ankommen" stems from the inherent assumption of acceptance. He challenges the notion that simply arriving in a new place guarantees belonging. He acknowledges the painful reality of navigating prejudice, discrimination, and the constant need to prove oneself.
A Continual Journey:
"Ankommen" implies an endpoint, a moment of definitive arrival. But for Tabakovic, the journey is ongoing. He sees it as a continual process of adapting, evolving, and learning to navigate the complexities of his adopted home. It's about finding a sense of belonging while retaining one's individual identity.
Embracing the Unfinished:
Instead of seeking a definitive "Ankommen," Tabakovic embraces the unfinished nature of the journey. He challenges readers to acknowledge the ongoing process of becoming and the complexities of integrating into a new culture. This is the heart of his novel, "Ankommen," which seeks to open a dialogue about the nuanced experiences of immigrants and the realities of their ongoing journey.
Beyond Words:
"Ankommen" may be a word Tabakovic rejects, but the concept it represents is deeply embedded in his work. Through his writing, he invites us to look beyond the simplistic notion of arrival and to understand the multifaceted and ever-evolving experience of finding one's place in a new world.
Keywords:
Tabakovic, Ankommen, arrival, immigrant, identity, belonging, Germany, Bosnia, culture, prejudice, discrimination, journey, process, novel