TyroneGrima

His passion for writing began with a childhood love of reading and creating stories. He draws inspiration from renowned writers such as Graham Greene, Patricia Highsmith, Albert Camus and Isabel Allende, whose works have influenced his writing style. In addition to literary figures, Grima also finds inspiration in the world of cinema. For instance, filmmakers like Woody Allen and François Truffaut have impacted him with their distinctive and innovative approaches to film structure and narrative.

Grima is very active in the local theatre scene, both writing and directing plays. Some of his works include Antigone (2018), Zayden (2019), Agnes of God (2020), Mill-kċina ta’ Connor (‘From Connor’s Kitchen’, 2020) and Zoom: Hybrid Performance (2021). Mill-kċina ta’ Connor, written and performed during COVID lockdowns, was among the first local theatrical pieces to be streamed live online.

Spirituality, religion and LGBTQIA+ issues are central themes in his award-winning novel Frammenti (‘Fragments’, Merlin Publishers, 2021), in which he explores these topics through a dystopian narrative. The story follows an unnamed hero in a world devoid of human beings, where time has come to a standstill. The only exception is Sophie, a mysterious character he encounters on his journey.

The novel is divided into the four calendar seasons, possibly symbolising the traditional stages of mourning for the loss of a loved one. Central to the story are the protagonist’s memories of a love that has ended but which still exerts a powerful influence over him, holding him back from moving forward in life and creating a sense of lingering loss that he cannot escape.

The absence of physical, emotional and spiritual love drives the protagonist into an uncertain and surreal journey, set in a landscape replete with invisible forces and nightmarish visions that blur the line between reality and illusion. The barrenness seems to suggest that the protagonist is looking for a fresh start. However, his pursuit is compromised by the desolate surroundings – abandoned buildings and empty streets – whose stark emptiness amplifies presence in absence.

The narrative suggests that his emotional growth is intrinsically tied to his physical journey – his ability to move on emotionally is mirrored by his need to move physically. Once more, this emphasises how the lack of love in all its forms has stunted his ability to heal and move forward and, possibly, find closure.

Grima offers a fresh voice in Maltese literature, weaving together themes of spirituality and LGBTQIA+ issues.  In a literary scene that is relatively young, his work fills an unaddressed space, bringing new perspectives and depth. Grima tackles complex topics with sensitivity and insight, particularly significant in a context where such themes have so far been underrepresented.