Abstract
An opinion piece discussing the role of the realist novel and the concept of realism itself when reality seems so deranged in light of Trump, Brexit and the present Anglo-American crisis of legitimacy. The essay also acts as a critical-reflective 'companion' to my novel 'UnAmerican Activities' as the final part - calling for writers to respond with a 'deranged realism' - articulate the aesthetic behind my latest novel.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Journal | Berfois |
| Early online date | 17 Nov 2017 |
| Publication status | E-pub ahead of print - 17 Nov 2017 |
Bibliographical note
Impact: A 2000 word provocation piece that discusses the concept of literary realism in light of present political crises and argues that the Anglo-American realist novel is now defunct as reality itself has become so unstable and incoherent. The essay argues this turmoil, although new in an Anglo-American context, has been commonplace elsewhere in the world and that the Anglo-American world, rather than being at the vanguard of progress is now catching up with this turmoil. As a result, writers need to look towards examples of non-realist fiction as produced by writers from the post-colonial, post Communist and South American sphere for insights into future directions for the novel.Berfois magazine has a large online presence and the article has generated considerable discussion online.
Keywords
- English language and literature