Elie Wiesel interview (1995)

Ellie Wiesel, a renowned author and Holocaust survivor, discusses his childhood in Sighet, Romania. Born into a religious family, he was deeply immersed in study and books from a young age. His father, a learned man, owned a grocery store, and his grandfather lived nearby in a small village. Wiesel's early fascination with mysticism led him to study the Kabbalah, despite the risks associated with such studies at his age. This pursuit was interrupted by the onset of World War II and the Holocaust, which tragically claimed the lives of his mother and two sisters.

Wiesel recounts the deportation of his family to Auschwitz and the subsequent deaths of his mother, two older sisters, and grandmother. He describes the horrors of the concentration camps and the emotional trauma of losing his loved ones. His father also perished later in Buchenwald. Wiesel reflects on the indifference of the Hungarian Jewish community to the impending danger, which he believes could have been averted had the Allies bombed the railways. The narrative also touches on his experiences in a French orphanage and his struggles with faith and humanity in the aftermath of the Holocaust.

In France, Wiesel found a new home and a new language, French, which he learned and later used to write his books. He discusses his religious fervor and his philosophical questioning of God and humanity in the wake of the atrocities he witnessed. Wiesel also talks about his experiences in France, including his work as a choir conductor and his romantic pursuits. His intellectual journey is marked by influential figures like François Mauriac, who played a crucial role in his literary career.

Wiesel's literary career is highlighted, with his wife, Marion, playing a significant role in translating his works. He discusses his relationship with François Mauriac and the impact of other notable figures like André Malraux and François Mitterrand. Wiesel also reflects on the betrayal by those he admired, such as Mitterrand's collaboration with the Vichy regime. His writings extend beyond his own experiences, covering a wide range of topics including the Bible, the Talmud, and philosophical reflections.

Wiesel shares insights into his personal growth and the influential relationships in his life. He mentions his grandfather, father, and mother as formative figures, as well as his intellectual development under the guidance of Shani in France and Laso Lieberman in the United States. Wiesel also discusses his friendship with the philosopher Emmanuel Levinas and the impact of these relationships on his life and work.

The conversation turns to Wiesel's memoir, 'All Rivers Run to the Sea,' which covers his life up to his marriage in 1969. He explains that the memoir is part of a larger work, with a second volume planned. Wiesel expresses his concern for the future, particularly the dangers of fanaticism and the potential for nuclear terrorism. He emphasizes the importance of memory and the need to sensitize readers to the atrocities of the past, ensuring that the Holocaust remains a vivid and unforgettable part of history.

Wiesel concludes with a discussion on global concerns, focusing on the threat of fanaticism and its potential to lead to catastrophic events like nuclear terrorism. He reflects on his experiences in Israel and the United States, expressing his love for both countries. Wiesel also shares his thoughts on the enduring presence of Jews throughout history and their role as a symbol of humanity's conscience. His work and life are driven by a passion for learning and a commitment to ensuring that the memory of the Holocaust is never forgotten.