Centenary Edition Raymond Williams: Who Speaks for Wales? Nation, Culture, Identity

Raymond Williams was a key figure in the fields of cultural criticism and social theory, and his book "Who Speaks for Wales?" was a seminal work on Welsh culture, literature, history, and politics. This new edition, published in the centenary of Williams's birth, includes material that was not included in the first edition and argues that Williams's engagement with Welsh issues continues to be relevant to contemporary international debates on nationalism, class, and ethnicity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 432 pages
Publication date: 15 May 2021
Publisher: University of Wales Press

Raymond Williams, a renowned European male revolutionary socialist intellectual, stands as a towering figure in the realms of cultural criticism and social theory. His profound influence extended globally, while his unwavering commitment to understanding and celebrating his Welsh identity remained a central theme throughout his life. In 2003, Williams unveiled his first collection of writings, titled "Who Speaks for Wales?" This seminal work, published in the early years of Welsh political devolution, provided a historical and theoretical framework for navigating the complexities of nationalism and socialism in Welsh thought.

However, the landscape has shifted dramatically since the Brexit referendum of 2016, casting a new light on Raymond Williams's Welsh-European vision. While his ideas once resonated with a longing for unity and inclusivity across borders, they now serve as a poignant reminder of what might have been. This new edition of "Who Speaks for Wales?" includes additional material that amplifies the relevance and timeliness of Williams's insights. In a new afterword, the editor passionately argues that Williams's words continue to speak to our contemporary moment, offering a fresh perspective on the ongoing debates surrounding nationalism, class, and ethnicity.

Daniel G. Williams's meticulous edition further highlights the profound impact of Raymond Williams's engagement with Welsh issues on contemporary international discussions. His work sheds light on the ways in which Williams's insights challenge prevailing narratives and provide valuable contributions to our understanding of nationhood and identity in Britain and beyond. "Who Speaks for Wales?" remains an essential reading for anyone seeking to explore the intricacies of nationhood, identity, and the complexities of cultural exchange.

Weight: 518g
Dimension: 216 x 139 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786837066
Edition number: 3 New edition