In Memory of Times to Come: Ironies of History in Southeastern Papua New Guinea

This book examines the historical perspective of the Suau people in Papua New Guinea, who experienced missionization, colonialism, and World War II, and explores how they assess their own experience of change over the course of a critical century. It asks how people can claim that global connections are in the past, and what it means to lose one's culture.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 11 June 2021
Publisher: Berghahn Books

Drawing on a wealth of research spanning two decades, this captivating book delves into the historical perspective of a Pacific people who witnessed the ebb and flow of globalization. The Suau people, hailing from Papua New Guinea, bore the brunt of missionization and colonialism, actively participating in the Second World War. In Memory of Times to Come presents a nuanced exploration of how individuals perceive and interpret their own experiences of change throughout a pivotal century. It poses two fundamental inquiries: What implications does it hold to assert that global connections are a thing of the past, rather than the present or the future? Additionally, what does it mean to claim that one has lost their culture, yet not due to external forces actively taking it away or dismantling it?

This book offers a profound and thought-provoking examination of the complex interplay between globalization, cultural identity, and personal experiences. Through meticulous research and insightful analysis, the author sheds light on the ways in which individuals navigate the shifting tides of history, adapting to the changing landscapes of their world.

The Suau people, as the focal point of this study, provide a unique lens through which to explore the historical trajectory of a Pacific community. Their experiences, ranging from the early encounters with missionaries and colonialists to their active participation in the Second World War, offer a rich tapestry of historical events and cultural transformations.

One of the central themes of the book is the notion of cultural loss and preservation. The author questions whether it is possible to lose one's culture entirely, or whether it can be preserved and transformed through the processes of globalization and cultural exchange. The Suau people, for instance, have faced significant challenges in maintaining their traditional practices and beliefs in the face of modern influences and technological advancements.

However, the book also highlights the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit. The Suau people, despite facing displacement, cultural marginalization, and the loss of loved ones during the war, have managed to retain their sense of identity and heritage. They have adapted to the changing circumstances, incorporating elements of modern culture into their traditional practices while still holding onto their core values.

In Memory of Times to Come offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics of cultural change and the role of individuals in shaping their own experiences. It challenges traditional narratives of cultural loss and preservation, suggesting that the process of globalization can be a catalyst for cultural renewal and adaptation. The book encourages readers to consider the ways in which their own cultural identities are shaped by the forces of history and to embrace the opportunities that globalization presents for cultural exchange and collaboration.

Overall, In Memory of Times to Come is a must-read for anyone interested in the history, culture, and personal experiences of the Pacific region. It provides a nuanced and empathetic perspective on the complexities of globalization and cultural change, offering a valuable contribution to the field of cultural studies.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800731165