The Silent Exodus: How a Theocratic Revolution Silenced a Nation's Arts and Forged a New Cultural Capital in America

5. Fear of Persecution and Imprisonment: For many artists, particularly those whose work or lifestyle was perceived as promoting 'Westoxification' or critiquing the new Islamic government, the fear of persecution was very real. Arrests, trials, and imprisonment of cultural figures were not uncommon, driving those who valued their freedom and had the means to leave the country as quickly as possible. The political climate was one of sudden and dangerous uncertainty.