Writers’ Views of Rushdie Book

I fully agree with Richard Rodriguez (“Baiting Religion, American Style,� Editorial Page, Feb. 25) for saying what the American Muslims have been saying all along. He said, “To reiterate blasphemy through a microphone seems to me a provocation. I do believe that American writers believe that they are protesting censorship. But should one not question the propriety of giving further offense to Islam?�

Rushdie has written a blasphemous book and has committed a grave folly. He now realizes it. The writers are displaying malice and contempt for Islam and Muslims by their overindulgence in reading Rushdie’s book. This insult is not acceptable to the Muslims living in the United States and Canada. We are outraged and at the same time dismayed. If the PEN members think that they are protesting Khomeini’s proclamation, then why don’t they show a little courage and go to an Asian country and read the book.

MOHAMMAD YACOOB

Hawthorne