Meir Shalev's Literary Maturation and Legacy Explored in New Documentary

The recent documentary "Hakol Haya Kacha" (It Was Like This), named after one of his books, explores the life and work of the late Israeli author Meir Shalev, who passed away in April 2023 at the age of 74. The film, directed by Adi Arbel and aired on Kan 11, delves into Shalev's significant contributions to Israeli literature and culture, particularly in the wake of the October 7th attacks, a period where his voice is deeply missed. Shalev, a prominent figure of the Zionist left, is remembered for his insightful commentary and beloved weekly column in "Yedioth Ahronoth" that ran for over thirty years until his death.

The documentary revisits the question of what Shalev might have written or said about the current events, pondering whether he would have found hope or succumbed to despair regarding peace. His debut novel, "Roman Russian," published in 1988 when he was nearly 40, was a major success, followed by eight more novels, children's books, and non-fiction works translated into numerous languages. Before becoming a celebrated author, Shalev was a television personality in the 1970s and 80s, hosting interview shows, writing scripts, and presenting segments on language and press criticism.

Shalev's journey to authorship was marked by a long process of maturation. He revealed in the documentary that he had written and discarded two early novels in his twenties, feeling they were not yet right. He told interviewer Yaron London after the success of "Roman Russian" that his literary development took longer than for many other writers, and the excitement of writing the novel was immense. The film also touches upon his role as a father, with Shalev suggesting he might not have written his books without the experience of parenthood.

The article further reflects on the broader theme of literary maturation, citing examples like poets Agi Mishol and Leah Goldberg, and author Dorit Rabinyan. Mishol famously collected and destroyed copies of her first book published at 19, while Rabinyan spoke of the confusion and lack of self-definition that can accompany early success. The piece contrasts this with the potential benefits of early writing, such as passion, freshness, and spontaneity, as recalled by journalist Rogel Alpher.

Finally, the article highlights Shalev's essay "Deshe" (Grass) from his book "Ginat Bar" (Wild Garden). This essay, reflecting on the communal lawns of kibbutzim as symbols of equality and resilience against the local climate, showcases Shalev's unique style and sensual connection to the Israeli landscape. Shalev lived alternately in Alonim Ba'a and Jerusalem's Katamon neighborhood. The essay evokes nostalgia for the author and the journalist Shlomit Tana, who also grew up in a kibbutz and covered kibbutz life extensively.