Asian American Literature in Transition, 1996-2020: Volume 4

This volume explores Asian American literature from 1996 to the present, examining the concerns of the period, including civil unrest, terror, militarization, economic depression, and environmental abuse. It is divided into four sections that explore social challenges and literary advances, modes of intimacy, the proliferation of genres, and literary projects that speculate on future states of Asian America.

Format: Hardback
Length: 414 pages
Publication date: 17 June 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This comprehensive volume delves into the multifaceted concerns of Asian American literature from 1996 to the present, a period characterized by significant social, political, and cultural transformations. While this era witnessed civil unrest, terrorism, militarization, economic depression, and environmental abuse, it also saw an unprecedented surge in the visibility and growth of Asian American literature. The book is structured into four distinct sections, each exploring different aspects of the literary landscape.

In the first section, titled "Reckoning with Violence," the authors examine how Asian American literary productions of this period grapple with the enduring effects of structures and networks of violence. They explore how these experiences shape the identities and narratives of Asian American characters, highlighting the resilience and resistance of the community in the face of adversity.

The second section, titled "Modes of Intimacy," delves into the complex dynamics of intimacy that emerge in the context of neoimperialism, neoliberalism, and necropolitics. The authors explore the desires, loves, close friendships, romances, sexual relations, and erotic contacts that shape the lives of Asian American individuals and communities. They examine how these relationships are influenced by historical legacies, cultural norms, and the ongoing struggles for social justice.

The third section, titled "Proliferation of Genres," explores the diverse range of genres that have emerged in Asian American writing over the past quarter century. The authors examine how these genres have evolved and adapted to reflect the changing social, cultural, and political landscape, while also pushing the boundaries of traditional storytelling. They highlight the contributions of emerging and established writers in shaping the landscape of Asian American literature.

In the final section, titled "Speculations on Future States," the authors engage in literary projects that speculate on the future states of Asian America in domestic and global contexts. They explore the potential trajectories of Asian American identity, culture, and society, considering the impact of globalization, technology, and social movements on the community. The authors offer insightful perspectives on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Asian Americans in the 21st century.

Overall, this volume provides a rich and nuanced exploration of the concerns of Asian American literature from 1996 to the present. It offers valuable insights into the experiences, struggles, and achievements of Asian American individuals and communities, while also contributing to the broader understanding of American literature and culture.

Weight: 740g
Dimension: 235 x 158 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108830843