Former ambassador Ian Kemish has taken a unique path post-retirement, choosing to pen his debut novel, 'Two Islands,' rather than indulging in typical leisure activities. Kemish, with an impressive diplomatic career spanning 25 years, served as ambassador to Germany, high commissioner to Papua New Guinea, and even advised the prime minister. His novel, set in the 1990s post-Balkan War, explores the lives of individuals carrying hidden traumas into peaceful environments.
The story follows Niko, a young witness in a war crimes trial, who flees to Scotland's Western Hebrides, seeking refuge and anonymity. There, he meets Slow Fergus, a recluse, and their paths intertwine. Meanwhile, in Australia, war crimes investigator Anita Costello desperately searches for her missing witness.
'Two Islands' is a thrilling narrative, drawing from Kemish's extensive experience in international relations. When asked about his inspiration, Kemish reveals, "It's about people carrying hidden histories into peaceful places." He highlights the 1990s as a decade of contrasting experiences, from the 'golden innocence' many recall to the troubles in Northern Ireland and the death of Yugoslavia.
Kemish's personal connection to the story is evident. He shares, "I was a young diplomat roaming the Balkans during the Bosnian and Croatian Wars. I witnessed terrible things, but it was core work for me. I was the eyes and ears of the Australian government." This experience, combined with his love for the Western Hebrides, inspired the novel's setting and themes.
When asked about the writing process, Kemish admits, "I always wanted to write fiction. I was that nerdy kid writing spoof versions of Shakespearean plays for my classmates." He describes the process as different and not straightforward but emphasizes the fun in using creativity and imagination and sparking ideas through conversations.
Regarding the Balkan War backdrop, Kemish states, "It was an interesting and forgotten time. I wanted to remind people of it. It was an important period in my life, and combining it with the Western Isles worked perfectly." He shares a friend's story of taking witness statements from Rwandan genocide victims inside the Arctic Circle, emphasizing the authenticity of his novel's premise.
Kemish's diplomatic career undoubtedly influenced 'Two Islands.' He mentions a character with a similar role to his own and his unique perspective on the Balkan conflict. "It's not a dark story; there's lightness too, but there are dark moments that will resonate with those familiar with the Balkan conflict's history."
Kemish also highlights Australia's connection to the Balkan conflict, with large Croatian, Bosnian, and Serbian communities here and many Australians involved in the war. He notes, "Australia drew a significant number of refugees from that region, specifically Bosnia."
When asked about his approach to plotting, Kemish reveals, "I'm not a planner. I had a sense of the book's arc early on, but I built it as I wrote, like building a plane while flying it."
The novel is told from the perspectives of four main characters: Anita, a strong and tough AFP officer; Niko, a brave and innocent young man; Fergus, a broken recluse suffering from hidden trauma; and Ronnie, an eccentric observer who acts as the community's glue.
Kemish drew inspiration from various authors, including Melissa Lukashenko's 'Edenglassie,' Louise Doughty's 'A Bird in Winter,' and John le Carré, known for his character depth and honesty.
'Two Islands' is published by UQP and is a captivating read, offering a unique perspective on the aftermath of war and the power of hidden histories.
