Othering

Othering is a "poignant narrative of irregular migration and the tragedy that unfolds in the Mediterranean Sea, juxtaposing the contrasting worlds of Morocco and Europe. Within this work, [Benharrousse] challenge[s] the normalization of the countless deaths in this perilous journey, shedding light on the urgent need for change. As a Moroccan youth immersed in a society where discussions of 'escaping' Morocco are commonplace, [he] draw[s] inspiration from personal experiences and the stories of those who embarked on this perilous voyage, only to meet an untimely demise. This pervasive yearning for a dream devoid of reality fuels [his] artistic exploration. . . . The cyclical narrative structure echoes the repetitive and endless nature of the migratory process, leading to the inevitable demise of the migrants. Through carefully selected sounds and visuals, [the poet] invite[s] readers to empathize with the harsh reality of smuggling and migration." -- Rachid Benharrousse