I am your handiwork made flesh. You took beauty and created hideousness, and out of this monstrosity your child will be born …. I am the meaning of your deeds. I am the meaning of your so-called love; your destructive, selfish, wanton love … your love looks just like hatred.
In "Shalimar the Clown," Salman Rushdie explores the complex relationship between creator and creation, emphasizing the idea that one's actions can lead to unintended consequences. The quote reflects on how beauty can be transformed into something grotesque, suggesting that love, when misguided or selfish, can manifest itself as cruelty or hatred. The speaker acknowledges their existence as a direct result of these destructive dynamics, hinting at a cycle of pain and misunderstanding in relationships.
The imagery of 'handiwork made flesh' indicates a deep connection between the creator and the creation, underscoring the impact of the creator's intentions on their offspring. This passage serves as a powerful commentary on the dual nature of love, which can give life yet also bear the weight of destruction. By confronting the darker side of love and its implications, Rushdie prompts readers to reflect on the true meanings behind their affections and the consequences they can yield.