In Order to Hear the Earth, We Must Love It

Celebrated author Amitav Ghosh delivered a lecture at the India International Centre, and discussed the interconnectedness of global crises. His new book Wild Fictions was launched at the event.

- ADITHI REENA AUTH

SUPER CHARGED storms, mega droughts, catastrophic rainbombs, and runaway wildfires are the ‘monsters’ of our time,” said celebrated Indian author Amitav Ghosh on the pressing global crises—from climate change and environmental degradation to the changing global order—, during the recently held Dr. C.D. Deshmukh Memorial Lecture 2025 at the India International Centre.

In his address, Ghosh delved into the evolving world order and the hazards of our current moment, drawing insights from his works, especially his latest book Wild Fictions (HarperCollins) which was launched at the event in the presence of former Foreign Secretary Shyam Saran.

The lecture, titled ‘Time of Monsters, Time of Possibilities: Reflections on an Interstitial Era,’ drew inspiration from the ideas of Italian Marxist philosopher Antonio Gramsci. While his concept of “monsters” primarily referred to political entities, particularly fascists, Ghosh highlighted how the “monsters” of our time also include extreme weather events. He also emphasised the need to recognise the political nature of climate disasters, noting that these events are not isolated natural phenomena but outcomes of historical processes that unfairly benefitted a small minority.