Bessie Head and the Trauma of Exile: Identity and Alienation in Southern African Fiction

This book explores the themes of exile and oppression in Southern Africa through the works of Bessie Heads. It argues that Heads' characters are driven to exile due to their socio-political ambivalence and experiences of trauma and identity politics. It also addresses black-on-black prejudice and hostility, often overlooked in studies of Heads' work. The book covers Heads' shorter fiction as well as her major novels, making it valuable for researchers of African literature and postcolonial history.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 228 pages
\n Publication date: 18 June 2021
\n Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd
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This comprehensive book delves into the profound themes of exile and oppression experienced in Southern Africa across the rich literary works of Bessie Heads. As a self-proclaimed exile herself, Heads arrived in Botswana as a South African refugee, and her fiction stands as a significant testament to African exile literature. Through her characters, the book argues that their socio-political ambivalence in South Africa drives them to seek solace in exile, a sense of discomfort that follows them to their new lives.

In addition to exploring themes of trauma and identity politics within colonial and post-colonial contexts, this book also sheds light on the often overlooked issue of black-on-black prejudice and hostility. By examining Heads' shorter fiction as well as her major novels, including When Rain Clouds Gather (1969), Maru (1971), A Question of Power (1973), Serowe: Village of the Rain Wind (1981), and A Bewitched Crossroads: An African Saga (1984), this book appeals to scholars and enthusiasts of African literature and postcolonial history alike.

Through its meticulous analysis and insightful interpretations, this book offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics of exile, oppression, and the search for identity in Southern Africa. It serves as a testament to Heads' talent as a writer and her ability to capture the human experience with honesty and depth, making her works a lasting contribution to the literary landscape.

\n Weight: 512g\n
Dimension: 160 x 241 x 22 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780367710286\n \n