Layers of Identity: Malta as the Qaqoċċ Mimli of Europe

A Prelude to Reflection

As the European election horizon draws near, our thoughts inevitably drift towards the puzzle of Malta’s place within the broader European tapestry—a reality that, at times, feels more distant than intimate. Yet, it’s crucial that we not succumb to the insular mindset that might tempt us to undervalue our voice, our vote, and our future in this union to which we are inextricably linked. Against this backdrop, it seems both timely and necessary to unravel the intricate can of worms that is our Maltese identity—an issue frequently discussed but seldom deeply explored.

Beyond the surface

Understanding the Maltese identity is often perceived as a straightforward query, akin to skimming the surface of a calm sea. Yet, this perception is as misleading as it is simplistic. I’d say delving into the Maltese identity is more akin to savouring a stuffed artichoke – beneath each leaf lies layers of rich, cultural goodness, a complexity that demands effort and persistence to truly comprehend. Many approach this quest for identity with the expectation of an easy answer, only to find themselves daunted by the depth and diversity of what it means to be Maltese. Like the artichoke, the true essence of our identity is not readily accessible; it requires peeling back layer after layer to reach the heart, the core of our being. This journey is often abandoned prematurely, leaving a superficial understanding that fails to encapsulate the intricate blend of influences that define us as a people. 

Reflections from afar

Dare I say, living abroad has profoundly sharpened my awareness of the intricate and nuanced tapestry that constitutes our Maltese identity, an identity that eludes simplistic categorisation. This realisation has been particularly pronounced when tasked with elucidating the essence of being Maltese to fellow students and individuals from diverse backgrounds. Engaging with various Mediterranean nationalities has underscored our shared commonalities, prompting reflections on our collective identity. Such interactions, coupled with discussions with friends, family, and acquaintances during travels, have led me to perceive a subtle identity crisis among us—a situation we might be inclined to deny.

What, then, truly defines us as Maltese? The question extends far beyond the mere circumstance of being born on these islands. It beckons a deeper exploration into the core of our identity. Is it not imperative that we seek a more profound understanding of what it means to be Maltese, beyond the geographical and the obvious? This introspection is essential, inviting us to contemplate the rich layers of culture, history, and shared experiences that weave together to form the complex mosaic of our identity.

Crossroads of identity

Historically, the question of our identity has surfaced repeatedly, probing into our ethnic, cultural, and political roots. Alongside our inherent islander mentality, I’d say there exists also a colonised, defeatist mindset, a legacy of our tumultuous history of conquest and dominion. This has imbued us with a sense of having to choose one singular aspect of our identity – European, Mediterranean, or Semitic – forcing us into a narrow corridor of self-definition. We’ve oscillated between aligning ourselves with the European or Arab world, all the while grappling with this multifaceted dilemma. This pursuit, coupled with attempts to emulate the models of other states — dreaming, perhaps, of becoming the ‘Switzerland of the Mediterranean’ — has precipitated a sort of identity crisis concerning what it fundamentally means to be Maltese.

I have come to view the Maltese identity as being something that can be symbolically represented by the Maltese cross. Just how each point of the cross used to reveal a different language, a different culture, merging to form a beautifully rich and unified whole, emblematic of our shared heritage, which was the Knights of Malta. Our language itself is a testament to such a blend, a magnificent fusion that speaks volumes of our collective history. When pondering the Maltese identity, I see us as Latinised Semitic people, enriched by this deep European and Maghrebi culture, exuding a Mediterranean fervor through our cuisine, our conduct, and our worldview.

To be Maltese is to embody a complex fusion, a multicultural harmony that traces back to our ancestors’ ability to cohabit these islands with a spirit of unity in diversity. It’s this intricate interweaving of cultures, languages, and traditions that defines us, offering a rich, multidimensional perspective on what it means to be Maltese.

Embracing Complexity 

To wrap things up, the Maltese identity, much like the stuffed artichoke, offers I think a beautiful culinary metaphor for our cultural journey: rich, layered, and demanding effort to truly understand. It’s a call to not give up at the first sign of complexity but to continue venturing deeper into the core of our collective soul – in order to find out better who we are as a people. In this quest, we may discover that the essence of being Maltese cannot be distilled into a singular truth; but a multitude of stories, influences, and traditions, woven together into a vibrant, living mosaic. As we conclude this exploration, let us embrace the complexity and diversity of our identity, recognising that it is the multitude of these narratives that enriches our sense of self and community, crafting a uniquely Maltese narrative that continues to evolve with each passing generation. 

P.S.

So, I’ve talked a lot about what it means to be Maltese, but it feels like I am still searching for answers. To some, the question might seem simple or even obvious, but I know there are others out there who, like me, find themselves pondering this, especially as we navigate our place in Europe’s future. It’s a big topic, and I believe it’s crucial for us to explore.

I’m really keen to hear your thoughts on this. Whether you think it’s a straightforward question or if, like me, you find it a bit of a puzzle, I’d love to start a conversation. Feel free to drop a comment, or if you prefer, send me a message directly. What does being Maltese mean to you? I’m genuinely interested in your perspective, and I think sharing our views could shed some more light on this intriguing question.

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The views expressed in this article are those of the author and are not reflective of ‘A Bird’s Eye View’ as a whole.

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