THE Life and Times of Clarence Rufin’ is an intricate exploration of the personal and professional life of Clarence Rufin (1951-2024), Pakistan Observer’s former editor and a distinguished journalist whose career spanned several decades and continents, though he is more known for stints at ‘Dawn’/DawnNews (Karachi and Islamabad), ‘The News’ (Rawalpindi) and Pakistan Observer (Islamabad). Edited by renowned journalist Kamran Rehmat, who is also former Editor of Pakistan Observer, the book is a compilation of essays, personal recollections and a pictorial journey that offers a comprehensive look into Rufin’s contributions to journalism and the impact he had on his colleagues and the industry at large. The work is meticulously structured, beginning with a foreword that sets the tone for the subsequent chapters. It includes multiple dedications from Rufin’s family, friends and fellow journalists. These dedications highlight the personal connections and deep respect Rufin garnered throughout his life.
However, the heart of the book lies in its essays which cover a wide range of topics and showcase Rufin’s sharp intellect and unique perspective on various social and political issues. His writings reflect a deep understanding of human nature, cultural nuances and the intricacies of journalistic integrity. Rufin’s ability to present contrasts and bring out irony in his characters and narratives is particularly noteworthy, leaving a lasting impression on the reader. The pictorial section adds a visual dimension to Rufin’s life story, offering glimpses of his journey from his early years in Gujranwala to his professional endeavours across different media houses, cities and continents. The photographs serve as a poignant reminder of his legacy and the personal moments that defined him. The foreword, also penned by Kamran Rehmat, offers an intimate glimpse into the relationship between the author and Rufin. It details their shared experiences across five different media outlets, illustrating the close bond they developed over the years. Rehmat recounts various anecdotes that showcase Rufin’s wisdom, sense of humour and reclusive nature.
In recounting his value as a journalist, a number of his colleagues — some of them prominent names in the industry — reflect on a ‘quiet force in the newsroom’ that the current Pakistani media landscape badly lacks. One of the standout essays entitled ‘The Rider and His Horse Sense,’ Rufin delves into the political acumen of President Asif Ali Zardari. Rufin masterfully narrates Zardari’s journey from a much-lampooned political figure to a master tactician who managed to balance power effectively. Another compelling essay is ‘A ‘Bulbul’ of 1,000 Stories,’ which paints a poignant picture of the lives of women in Karachi’s notorious district, symbolized by the Bulbul-e-Hazar Dastan building. Through the tragic story of Fakhra Younus, a victim of an acid attack, Rufin sheds light on the harsh realities faced by these women. His narrative is both empathetic and brutally honest, capturing the societal neglect and personal suffering that define their existence. Rufin’s storytelling here is both a call to action and a tribute to the resilience of these women.
Rufin’s essays are peppered with sharp observations and memorable punch lines that reflect his keen understanding of human nature and societal dynamics. In “A ‘Bulbul’ of 1000 Stories”, he recounts the devastation thus: “He followed Fakhra to Karachi and in violent rage poured acid on her face and body (he denies it), while the five-year-old son watched his mother’s face melt like a shrine candle.” “She landed on the ground and died the death of a bulbul without wings.”
Rufin may have reserved his best for the trade he practiced: journalism. In a chapter entitled ‘From the Newsroom — No Holds Barred!’ he brings home the essence of battling the odds in deadline-driven newsrooms. “The deadline is a sword hanging over the head of each sub-editor who has been assigned responsibility for the page or pages designated to cover a certain country or continent.” “Newspapers are not just loud-hailers. We feel that by printing such news we are acting both as a cushion and as shock absorbers to the events that lead to difficult and dangerous situations — the tsunami tragedy or 9/11 terror attack are cases in point,” he avers in one passage.
Other pieces are timeless. Take for example, the chapter entitled ‘One for Me, None for You?’ about manipulated awards at the highest levels every March and August. “Most people believe the majority of the awards are given to blue-eyed boys and green-eyed women,” Rufin writes, and then begs the question that still sticks out years after he wrote it: “Isn’t it time the system is reformed? Considering some of the names included in this year’s honours list and in the previous years, it must be done to truly respect the award, the giver and the recipients.” ‘Solitude’ is available for free, with only shipping charges to be borne by the reader. To order your copy,
—The writer is Staff Reporter of Pakistan Observer.
