Decolonising the Maltese Mind: In Search of Identity

by Charles Xuereb

After almost sixty years since Independence Maltese society, not surprisingly, is still living its postcolonial period. If it is to decolonise its mentality, in search of identity, it needs to recognise and own its past and then stand up to the challenge of change. Includes over 130 illustrations and a map of Valletta.

Genres: Nonfiction

375 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2022

Reviews

[Adam · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've visited the European Mediterranean extensively, including Spain, Italy, Greece, south of France, and Portugal; therefore, I was thrilled to finally add Malta to my list. To me, it seemed like a fascinating nation. I had read about its mixture of cultures with Italian, French, North African, and Semitic influences and rich history, including the Knights of Malta, and their part in WW II. I learned phrases in Maltese in order to interact with the locals- I was ready to rock and roll! Aaaand it felt like I fell flat on my face.

The first few days in Valletta, I couldn't find traditional Maltese food (aside from pastizzi in touristic cafes). Overall, I couldn't find Maltese people. Where were they?! Outside of Valletta, I interacted with a few more locals in Rabat/Medina and Gozo, but not many. I met some local servers that were excited about their international menus, and rubbed shoulders with older Maltese people during Catholic mass.

It felt like I was visiting Italy without its Italians, or Greece without its Greek soul. There were a few instances when I got to admire Maltese culture. One time, my spouse and I, by luck, got to witness the beautiful procession of Saint Publius in Floriana. It was moving. Another time, in Gozo, we got to chat with one chef serving both traditional Maltese food and fusions. We talked local wines, and traditional cooking techniques.

It was an odd thing because part of traveling for me is not just sight seeing, but experiencing and learning from different cultures through their food, music, people, and language. Clearly, Maltese culture exists, but I was struck by how hidden it felt. I was shocked by the strong presence of British royal insignias, and many people living there who had no knowledge or care for the local culture, language, or history. Clearly, if I lived in Malta, I would find Maltese spaces to experience the culture. I was just surprised that how in a trip of 10 or so days, the islands and their culture felt a complete mystery. I would have to keep digging, and that is why I bought several books on Malta, including this one.

This book helped me better understand and processed what I saw and experienced in Malta. I am glad academics like this author are determined to have these tough conversations. These dialogues are important and I wish this author and the Maltese people all the best. Because of this book, I would definitely go back to these beautiful islands to try again with what I know now.

[Max · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book makes good points with regards to what constitutes the Maltese identity, or in many aspects the lack of clarity about it. It gives historical arguments as to why this is so and sketches ideas for the future of Maltese society.
Having said the above, however, the book could do perhaps with more focus on the main arguments, less side arguments that in my opinion do not add strength to the main arguments and less repetition.
I enjoyed the book and recommend it to anyone curious and questioning who we are as a Maltese society and why we came to be why we are.
And yes the George Cross should not be on our flag.