Heart of a Stranger: An Anthology of Exile Literature

The Heart of a Stranger is an anthology of poetry, fiction, and non-fiction that explores the theme of exile, featuring contributions from over a hundred contributors across twenty-four languages and six continents. It includes wisdom from the Desert Fathers and Mothers, the Flight of the Irish Earls, Madame de Staël's thoughts on Napoleon's tyranny, Emma Goldman's experiences during the First Red Scare, Ngugi wa Thiong'o's stories of European colonial settlers in Kenya, and the work of contemporary Eritrean poet Ribka Sibhatu. Edited by poet and translator André Naffis-Sahely, the anthology offers a diverse and contemporary perspective on the ancient theme of exile.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 29 August 2019
Publisher: Pushkin Press

Exile has been a recurring theme in our earliest stories, spanning from ancient times to the present day. This anthology, titled "The Heart of a Stranger," explores the diverse experiences of individuals who were compelled to leave their homes, traversing across six continents and featuring contributions from over a hundred contributors, speaking twenty-four languages. Among the notable highlights are the insights of the 5th-century Desert Fathers and Mothers, the dramatic flight of the Irish Earls, Madame de Staël's reflections on Napoleon's tyranny, Emma Goldman's struggles in the aftermath of the First Red Scare, Ngugi wa Thiong'o's narratives of European colonial settlers in Kenya, and the contemporary poetry of Ribka Sibhatu from Eritrea. Compiled by poet and translator André Naffis-Sahely, "The Heart of a Stranger" presents a multifaceted and deeply resonant exploration of a theme that is both ancient and profoundly relevant in our contemporary world.

Exile as a Theme in Our Earliest Stories:
Exile has been a recurring theme in our earliest stories, spanning from ancient times to the present day. This anthology, titled "The Heart of a Stranger," explores the diverse experiences of individuals who were compelled to leave their homes, traversing across six continents and featuring contributions from over a hundred contributors, speaking twenty-four languages. Among the notable highlights are the insights of the 5th-century Desert Fathers and Mothers, the dramatic flight of the Irish Earls, Madame de Staël's reflections on Napoleon's tyranny, Emma Goldman's struggles in the aftermath of the First Red Scare, Ngugi wa Thiong'o's narratives of European colonial settlers in Kenya, and the contemporary poetry of Ribka Sibhatu from Eritrea. Compiled by poet and translator André Naffis-Sahely, "The Heart of a Stranger" presents a multifaceted and deeply resonant exploration of a theme that is both ancient and profoundly relevant in our contemporary world.

Diverse Experiences of Exile:
The anthology "The Heart of a Stranger" showcases a wide range of experiences related to exile. From the desert fathers and mothers who sought solace in solitude and spiritual contemplation to the Irish earls who fled political persecution, each contribution offers a unique perspective on the challenges and hardships faced by those who were forced to leave their homes. The stories encompass various historical periods, from ancient civilizations to modern times, and cover different regions of the world, including Africa, Europe, Asia, and North America.

Wisdom and Insights:
One of the standout features of "The Heart of a Stranger" is the wisdom and insights shared by the contributors. The Desert Fathers and Mothers, for instance, offer profound reflections on the nature of existence, the importance of compassion, and the search for meaning in the face of adversity. Their words provide a timeless wisdom that resonates with readers across different cultures and time periods. Similarly, Madame de Staël's thoughts on Napoleon's tyranny offer a critical analysis of power and governance, highlighting the dangers of unchecked authority. Emma Goldman's travails in the wake of the First Red Scare shed light on the political repression and surveillance that characterized the era, and her advocacy for social justice and human rights continues to inspire generations.

Contemporary Voices:
While the anthology primarily features historical accounts and insights, it also includes contemporary voices that reflect the ongoing relevance of exile. Ngugi wa Thiong'o's tales of European colonial settlers in Kenya offer a poignant reflection on the complexities of cultural exchange and the impact of colonialism on indigenous communities. Ribka Sibhatu's poetry, in particular, explores the themes of displacement, identity, and the search for belonging in a world that is often marked by borders and divisions.

Editorial Vision:
The Heart of a Stranger is edited by poet and translator André Naffis-Sahely, who brings a deep understanding of the literary and cultural landscape to the project. His editorial vision ensures that the anthology is coherent and well-structured, while also allowing each contributor's voice to shine through. Naffis-Sahely's introduction provides valuable context and insights into the theme of exile, further enhancing the reader's appreciation of the diverse perspectives presented in the anthology.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, "The Heart of a Stranger" is a remarkable anthology that offers a diverse and profound exploration of the theme of exile. Through its collection of poetry, fiction, and non-fiction, the book provides a window into the experiences of individuals who have been forced to leave their homes, offering wisdom, insights, and a sense of connection across time and space. Whether you are interested in history, literature, or social justice, this anthology is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities and enduring significance of exile.

Weight: 334g
Dimension: 136 x 215 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781782274261