Sarvish Waheed, a 36-year-old writer born in Correggio and raised in Rio Saliceto, has described his father as a violent man who used physical force against his children and wife. He recounted how his father nearly choked his brother because he did not greet him, while wearing earphones. These memories, which have shaped much of his personal narrative, are central to his novel La nebbia di Rio, which explores themes of identity, cultural integration, and the lasting impact of family violence. The book, published by Accento Edizioni, begins with personal recollections and expands into broader reflections on heritage, societal judgment, and the emotional weight of growing up in a multicultural environment. In an interview with Vanity Fair, Waheed shared several pivotal moments from his childhood, one of which was the experience of being judged based on his worn-out shoes. As a Pakistani-born child living in the heart of Emilia-Romagna, he recalled how strangers would make comments about his footwear, highlighting a subtle yet persistent sense of otherness. This memory, he explained, has influenced his approach to parenting, now that he is the father of a two-and-a-half-year-old, he ensures his son wears stylish shoes to avoid similar experiences. This anecdote reflects a common struggle among children of immigrant families, who often feel the need to assimilate to fit in with their peers. For Waheed, even small objects such as shoes became symbols of social distance, not just economic, but also cultural and psychological. His current job as a warehouse worker and game board packer in San Martino in Rio underscores the challenges faced by many immigrants in finding stable employment and integrating into local society. Writing, however, has become a means for him to reclaim his story and give voice to an experience that is often hidden behind closed doors. Waheed’s life unfolds in the Reggio Emilia province, a region that has recently drawn public attention due to reports of domestic violence within certain communities. The area is also linked to the tragic death of Saman Abbas, a woman whose case sparked discussions about gender-based violence and the treatment of women in some immigrant households. Similarly, a young Pakistani woman from Novellara recently filed a complaint against her husband and relatives, alleging years of physical and psychological abuse, as well as isolation that prevented her from learning Italian and forming relationships beyond her family. These incidents highlight ongoing concerns about the intersection of immigration, culture, and domestic dynamics in Italy. While Waheed's story is deeply personal, it resonates with broader issues affecting immigrant families, particularly those navigating complex social environments. His work serves as both a literary contribution and a call to recognize the invisible struggles of individuals caught between two worlds. As Waheed continues to explore these themes through his writing, his journey offers insight into the lived realities of second-generation immigrants. His efforts to balance tradition with modernity reflect a universal desire to belong, while also preserving one’s roots. Through his novel, he gives voice to a generation that often remains unheard, shedding light on the quiet battles fought in homes, schools, and workplaces.
★
Keep the news honest.
ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €4/month.
Become a Supporter
Italy
