Contemporary Pakistani Speculative Fiction and the Global Imaginary: Democratizing Human Futures

This critical work examines how contemporary Pakistani authors are pushing the boundaries of emergent Pakistani speculative fiction in English by challenging cognitive majoritarianism and incorporating elements from djinn mythology, Quranic eschatology, Desi traditions, Eco-Islam, local folklore, and Islamic feminisms. The book highlights the literary value of these works in reconciling competing cognitive approaches, blurring the line between possibilities and impossibilities, and anticipating the future of human rights in these envisioned worlds. It offers an important intersectional element of Pakistani speculative fiction in relation to human rights and the imaginative capacity of these writings to anticipate future rights that do not yet exist.

Format: Hardback
Length: 162 pages
Publication date: 26 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This groundbreaking critical study delves into the innovative ways in which contemporary Pakistani authors are pushing the boundaries of emergent Pakistani speculative fiction written in English. By challenging the prevailing cognitive majoritarianism, often associated with Western perspectives, these authors are venturing into uncharted territories, expanding the genre in exciting new directions. In response to the recent Afro Sci-fi movement, which aims to democratize speculative fiction by empowering non-Western writers, Pakistani authors have incorporated diverse elements from djinn mythology, Quranic eschatology, Desi traditions, Eco-Islam, local folklore, and Islamic feminisms into their narratives. Their goal is to foster familiarity with alternative worldviews and broaden the horizons of readers.

Spanning five chapters, this book meticulously analyzes fiction by both established and emerging Pakistani authors, showcasing the immense literary value of these contemporary works in reconciling competing cognitive approaches, blurring the boundaries between possibilities and impossibilities in envisioning humanity's collective future, and anticipating the future of human rights in these envisioned worlds.

What truly sets this book apart is its dual focus. Firstly, it provides a dedicated scholarly examination of Pakistani speculative fiction, a genre that has garnered significant interest but has yet to receive comprehensive academic analysis. Secondly, this book explores an overlooked intersectional dimension—the relationship between Pakistani speculative fiction and human rights—and highlights the imaginative capacity of these writings to anticipate future rights that may not yet exist.

Through in-depth analysis and thoughtful exploration, this critical work contributes to the growing body of literature that seeks to expand the horizons of speculative fiction and promote inclusivity and diversity in the field. It offers valuable insights into the creative processes of Pakistani authors, their influences, and their commitment to challenging established narratives. By examining the ways in which Pakistani speculative fiction engages with human rights, social justice, and cultural identity, this book sheds light on the potential of literature to shape our understanding of the world and inspire positive change.

In conclusion, this groundbreaking critical study is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the dynamic world of emergent Pakistani speculative fiction. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the genre's evolution, its intersections with other fields, and its potential to shape our collective imagination about the future. By challenging cognitive majoritarianism and embracing diverse perspectives, Pakistani authors are paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse speculative fiction landscape, one that reflects the rich tapestry of South Asian culture and heritage.

Weight: 470g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032188218