Meaning: This quote by Michael Ondaatje, a renowned Sri Lankan-born Canadian author, provides insight into the nature of storytelling and the creative process behind writing. Ondaatje is best known for his novel "The English Patient," which won the Booker Prize and was later adapted into an Academy Award-winning film. His works often explore themes of history, memory, and the impact of chance and circumstance on individuals and their experiences.

In this quote, Ondaatje reflects on the nature of the last three books he has written, describing them as "a moment of history" that unfolded almost by accident or coincidence. This perspective offers a glimpse into Ondaatje's approach to storytelling and the way in which he conceptualizes the events and narratives within his works.

Ondaatje's description of his last three books as "a moment of history" suggests that these works capture a specific, often pivotal, period in time. By characterizing them in this way, he emphasizes the significance of historical context and the impact of larger events on the lives of his characters. Ondaatje's novels often weave together personal stories with broader historical events, creating a rich tapestry of human experience within the framework of specific historical moments.

Furthermore, Ondaatje's comparison of these books to "being in the same elevator or lifeboat" conveys a sense of happenstance and the unpredictable nature of life. This analogy underscores the idea that the narratives within his books are shaped by chance encounters, unexpected alliances, and the convergence of disparate individuals and circumstances. Ondaatje's storytelling is not driven solely by predetermined plotlines, but rather by the interplay of characters and events that unfold in a manner akin to the randomness of meeting someone in an elevator or sharing a lifeboat during a crisis.

It is worth noting that Ondaatje's writing style often incorporates non-linear narratives, fragmented storytelling, and shifting perspectives. This approach allows him to capture the fluidity of memory and the interconnectedness of events across time and space. By embracing the concept of "accident or coincidence" in his storytelling, Ondaatje creates a sense of unpredictability and spontaneity that mirrors the complexities of real-life experiences.

Moreover, Ondaatje's emphasis on the role of chance in shaping his narratives reflects a broader philosophical inquiry into the nature of fate, free will, and the interplay of individual agency within larger historical forces. His characters grapple with the consequences of their choices and the unanticipated repercussions of events beyond their control, echoing Ondaatje's contemplation of the fortuitous nature of storytelling itself.

In conclusion, Michael Ondaatje's quote offers a thought-provoking glimpse into his approach to writing and the themes that permeate his works. By characterizing his last three books as "a moment of history" shaped by accident or coincidence, Ondaatje invites readers to ponder the interconnectedness of personal and historical narratives, the role of chance in shaping human experiences, and the enigmatic nature of storytelling itself. This perspective illuminates the depth and complexity of Ondaatje's literary explorations, inviting readers to engage with the profound questions and nuanced narratives that define his distinctive body of work.