Examining the Phenomenon of Book Fabrication in Iran in Conversation with Fathollah Biniyaz

Book fabrication has been a common issue in Iran, but it has become more noticeable in recent years. Radio Farda has interviewed Fathollah Biniyaz, a writer, critic, and book expert in Tehran, regarding this phenomenon. In the conversation, Biniyaz defines book fabrication as the process where some authors read various books, whether popular or obscure, and summarize their stories. They identify the plot lines and characters, and while some authors skillfully weave these narratives together, others do so in a mechanical and unoriginal manner, lacking the creativity that a true author should exhibit. Biniyaz expresses concern that this issue is not limited to low-quality writers and translators but has also infiltrated serious literature, where even self-proclaimed progressive writers borrow heavily from multiple sources. He highlights a significant lack of critical review and strong editing in Iranian literature, which contributes to the prevalence of book fabrication. Biniyaz notes that this issue has historical roots, particularly in the translation sector, and mentions that many works have been copied from authors like Agatha Christie and Alexandre Dumas. He emphasizes that while all writers are influenced by others, true creation involves a unique perspective and depth of understanding that is often missing in fabricated works. The conversation raises questions about the motivations behind this trend, including the lack of active criticism and intelligent editors, as well as the personal experiences and knowledge of the writers themselves. Biniyaz argues that these factors lead to a homogenization of narratives in contemporary Iranian literature, which diminishes the uniqueness of new works.