Acclaimed author Maggie O’Farrell has made headlines for her bold decision to turn down an Order of the British Empire (OBE), citing deep-rooted concerns about the historical implications of the honour. The celebrated novelist, known for her poignant storytelling and her award-winning work “Hamnet,” which has recently been adapted into an Oscar-nominated film, has shed light on her reasoning in a revealing interview with *The Irish Times*.
A Personal Stance Against Colonial Legacy
O’Farrell, who was born in Ireland in 1982 and has lived in various parts of the UK, expressed that her rejection of the OBE was rooted in two primary convictions. First and foremost, she articulated a strong aversion to having “British Empire” associated with her name. This sentiment is particularly significant given the current discourse surrounding colonialism and its enduring impact on society.
The author elaborated on her decision by referencing the controversial figure of Charles Trevelyan, a Victorian colonial administrator who infamously referred to the Irish Famine as an “act of God.” O’Farrell stated, “If Charles Trevelyan has it, I don’t want it,” highlighting her discomfort with being part of an honours system that continues to celebrate individuals with such problematic legacies.
A Call for Rethinking Honours
In her interview, O’Farrell didn’t hold back, suggesting it is “high time” for a reconsideration of the honour’s name, given its colonial associations. While acknowledging that many accept such accolades without hesitation, she felt unable to align herself with an institution that she perceives as honouring figures who have played a role in perpetuating historical injustices.
This rejection is part of a broader trend where notable figures, including writers and artists such as Roald Dahl and Benjamin Zephaniah, have also turned down British honours for various reasons, often connected to their personal beliefs or political stances. Welsh actor Michael Sheen, for example, returned his award, stating that his anti-imperialist views were incompatible with holding the title.
A Glimpse into O’Farrell’s Upcoming Work
Maggie O’Farrell’s next literary offering, “Land,” is set to be released on June 2 and promises to be a rich, multigenerational epic. The novel follows a father and son involved in the Great Ordnance Survey project, which aimed to map Ireland in the 1860s. As O’Farrell continues to explore themes of identity, heritage, and history, her refusal of the OBE adds another layer of meaning to her narrative voice.
Why it Matters
O’Farrell’s decision to decline the OBE is not merely a personal choice but a significant statement about the ongoing conversation surrounding colonialism and its ramifications. In a world increasingly aware of historical injustices, her actions serve as a reminder that public honours carry weight beyond mere recognition; they represent the values and legacies we choose to uphold. As society grapples with its past, the voices of those like O’Farrell challenge us to reflect on the meanings we attach to accolades and the histories they invoke.
