In an interview with Mireille Juchau, Maria Tumarkin explores her latest book, "Axiomatic," which delves into themes of criminal injustice, war trauma, migration, and the complexities of human relationships. Published by Transit Books in 2019, Tumarkin's work is noted for its urgent and innovative approach to nonfiction, characterized by a distinct narrative voice that blends emotional depth with academic rigor.
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During the conversation, Tumarkin reflects on her methods and intentions in "Axiomatic." She describes her writing as a response to her material, eschewing fixed roles such as historian or commentator. Instead, she aims to convey the fluidity of her thoughts as she navigates complex subjects, stating that her craft strives for emotional honesty without adhering to a strict template.
Tumarkin emphasizes the importance of preserving her unique voice as a writer, shaped by her experiences as a non-native English speaker. She candidly shares the challenges she faced in maintaining her style amidst editorial pressure to conform to conventional standards. Her writing captures a sense of breathlessness and heightened emotion, a response to both her cultural background and her personal history.
As she discusses the ethical implications of writing about sensitive topics, Tumarkin underscores the necessity of ongoing consent from individuals she portrays. She argues that true consent extends beyond a one-time agreement; it requires a continuous dialogue and respect for the figures in her narratives, who often grapple with trauma and vulnerability.
Reflecting on the structure of "Axiomatic," Tumarkin reveals that the book’s chapters are built around aphorisms meant to challenge preconceived notions. This innovative approach emerged organically during her eight-and-a-half-year writing process, allowing her to explore multifaceted themes without forcing a singular narrative framework.
Amidst conversations about friendship and collective identity, Tumarkin articulates the powerful impact of her Ukrainian childhood and her family's emigration to Australia. This background informs her exploration of kinship models that diverge from traditional narratives, highlighting the importance of relationships that extend beyond familial ties.
In her concluding thoughts, Tumarkin shares her philosophy on writing, likening it to an extreme activity that challenges both the writer and the reader. She advocates for an engaged, demanding relationship between authors and their audiences, where readers are encouraged to confront complexity rather than settle for simplicity.
Juchau, an award-winning novelist and critic, engages with Tumarkin’s insights and presents her reflections against the backdrop of a literary landscape that grapples with issues of representation and emotional expression.