Discussions on energy and sustainable development have intensified, particularly after COP 28. The imperative to “transition away from fossil fuels” has taken centre stage, emphasizing the need for global climate action over personal profits.
However, inclusivity in these efforts remains a crucial question. Viewing fossil fuels solely as an energy resource underestimates their impact. Recognizing their cultural significance is essential for an inclusive transition to green energy, particularly for marginalized communities affected by oil exploration.
Oil companies have built infrastructure on indigenous lands, causing severe environmental damage. This has directly impacted the livelihoods of these communities, whose identity is closely tied to their lands. Their fight for justice is often sidelined in international politics, exacerbating the injustices they face.
The devastated indigenous landscapes in various regions underscore the impact of oil resources on the environment, economy, and culture. This reality, often overlooked in mainstream narratives, is depicted in literature known as Petrofiction. Indian author and anthropologist Amitav Ghosh coined this term, highlighting the works of Abdelrahman Munif and their portrayal of the Middle East, particularly Saudi Arabia, after the discovery of oil.
In The Cities of Salt Trilogy, originally a quintet in Arabic, Abdelrahman Munif delves into the impact of the discovery of fossil fuels on the fictional cities of Harran and Mooran, inspired by real-life events in Saudi Arabia and the surrounding areas. The arrival of Americans and Britishers into the oil industry in the Middle East drastically altered the desert’s way of life, leading to the destruction of the ecosystem, displacement of the indigenous community, loss of identity, and power struggles.
This resulted in the emergence of the subalterns, those who lost their voice amidst the chaos of the oil industry. In the second volume of the trilogy, The Trench, Munif portrays the transformation of the Middle East in global affairs after the discovery of oil, highlighting the neglect and exploitation faced by the region before the oil boom.
The depiction of the harsh reality surrounding the discovery of oil resources and the intrusion of the Western world into Bedouin life takes a heavy toll on Abdul Rahman Munif, leading to his life in exile and the banning of his books. Despite this, Munif’s portrayal of the Middle East reflects his resistance and patriotism.
Similarly, Nigerian author Helon Habila sheds light on the reality of the oil industry in Nigeria through his book, Oil on Water (2010). The novel adds momentum to the struggle against oil imperialism by revealing how oil explorations ravage the indigenous ecosystem and livelihoods in Nigeria.
The story follows two journalists on an expedition down the river to meet with militants, providing insight into the impact of oil exploration on domestic spaces, civil war, resistance from tribal groups like the Ogoni, indigenous refugees, and widespread corruption. Habila emphasizes the potential for Nigeria to thrive but laments the incredible level of corruption hindering progress.
Habila’s bold writing provides a voice to those marginalized by history, reflecting the social unrest in regions like Nigeria and the Middle East where conflicts over oil and indigenous rights have become commonplace. Marjane Satrapi’s autobiographical graphic novel, Persepolis (2008), highlights the role of oil in inviting invasions in Persia and emphasizes the ongoing impact of oil on the Middle East.
Understanding the Russian-Ukraine war, the Israel-Palestine conflict, and the status of the Suez Canal in relation to fossil fuels sheds light on their role in warfare, adding new dimensions to the current geopolitical landscape. The tribes of the Amazon and indigenous communities in Alaska, including the Inuit and Aleut, are in an ongoing battle to protect their ecosystem, culture, and livelihoods from government and oil company interests.
Mei Mei Evans’ book, Oil and Water (2013), recounts her experience during the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill and its devastating impact on Alaska’s ecosystem and culture. Recent books like American War (2017) by Omar El Akkad and Fortune (2021) by Amanda Smyth contribute to Petrofiction, offering diverse perspectives on the role of oil. While more writers and activists are shedding light on oil narratives, there is still a need for greater global awareness and recognition of these issues.
Petrofiction and its writers draw from personal experiences within their communities to shed light on the impact of oil expeditions worldwide. Despite facing challenges, these writers remain committed to revealing the truth through fiction, serving as a voice for the oppressed and documenting subaltern experiences. Their work highlights the harsh reality of oil-related oppression and its significance in our history.
Story edited by: Mohammed Sajid