The theme of the artist's importance is the most important theme in Haroun and The Sea of Stories. Discuss.

I think that the role of the artist is an important theme
in the novel.  Rushdie's construction of the narrative is one where the artist might
surrender their own ability, feeling internal and external pressure around them.  Yet,
Rushdie's novel indicates how the artist must see their role in a different light and
persevere despite the difficult conditions around them.  Consider Rushdie's own
narrative as a part of this.  Living under the fatwa and having to constantly live in
hiding as a part of it, Rushdie had many opportunities to surrender his own craft and
stop writing.  Yet, he does not.  He preseveres.  Rashid faces external rejection and
internal doubt.  Yet, through the help of his son, he does not stop writing and seeks to
reclaim a voice that society wishes to silence.  In this, a major theme of the work is
evident.

I would also point out thagt another critical
theme in the work is the idea that democratic inclusion is the only solution to
political alienation and malignment.  Rashid and Haroun embark on their journey to help
the storyteller and have to accept help from a variety of sources on their journey. 
Rushdie does not construct a journey where there is exclusion, but rather inclusion of
so many different avenues.  This helps to bring out another important theme that the
only acceptable response to fanatcism and political isolation is inclusion and
acceptance of others.  In this, I would have to enhance the original
statement.