Robert Fisk’s final publication, Night of Power, debuted at a Dublin event this past Thursday. Fisk’s extensive journalism career, spanning over forty years in the Middle East, profoundly informs the content of the book, demonstrating his rich understanding of the region until his passing in 2020.
The book, introduced by Patrick Cockburn, contains a thorough blend of detailed eyewitness narratives from war zones, episodes of massacres, and everyday tales of sorrow, absurdity and failures, complemented by historical academic critique. These were the words of the late journalist’s wife, Nelofer Pazira-Fisk, given at the book release.
Nelofer Pazira-Fisk spoke of her husband’s missed voice, particularly during the recent escalation of the Palestine crisis following Israel’s incursion into Gaza. She often hears the phrase: “How would he interpret this crisis?” His insights, in-depth analyses, and indications of the present crisis are available in his posthumous book, she suggested.
Pazira-Fisk emphasised the opening chapter, Legacy: The War in Iraq – 2012, which recounts the experiences of families and ordinary citizens during the US/UK invasion and the subsequent wars in Falluja.
In contrast, the concluding chapter, The Surgeon with the Bloodstained Hands, offers an extensive exploration of Bashir Al-Asaad, the Syrian war and its early impact on Homs and Aleppo. It also discusses the involvement of additional countries such as Russia, Iran, Hizbullah, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey.
Author and editor Anthony Arnove praised Fisk’s work at the event, noting it as exemplary and uncompromising — a benchmark for all journalists in an increasingly critical and besieged profession.
Born in 1946 in England, Fisk, an award-winning war correspondent, resided in Dublin, maintaining his journalistic contributions until shortly before his death.