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: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 08 December 2023
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 key themes that emerge from In Memory of Times to Come is the notion of cultural loss and adaptation. The author questions the conventional understanding of cultural loss, which often implies a deliberate and intentional act of erasure or destruction. Instead, they propose that cultural loss can occur as a result of complex and multifaceted processes, including globalization, colonization, and social change.

The book explores how individuals negotiate the loss of their cultural heritage and adapt to new cultural contexts. It examines the ways in which people preserve and celebrate their traditions, while also embracing the opportunities and challenges presented by modernity. The author highlights the importance of maintaining a sense of cultural identity and heritage, while also being open to new ideas and experiences.

In Memory of Times to Come also raises important questions about the role of globalization in shaping cultural identities. The author argues that globalization has both facilitated and challenged the preservation and transmission of cultural traditions. On the one hand, it has brought people from different cultures together, promoting intercultural exchange and understanding. On the other hand, it has also led to the homogenization of cultures, as dominant cultural narratives and values increasingly dominate global discourse.

The book offers a nuanced and empathetic perspective on the complexities of cultural identity and globalization. It challenges readers to think critically about the ways in which these forces shape their lives and the world around them. It encourages individuals to embrace diversity and multiculturalism, while also recognizing the importance of preserving their cultural heritage and traditions.

In conclusion, In Memory of Times to Come is a groundbreaking work that offers a fresh and insightful perspective on the historical trajectory of a Pacific people. Through its nuanced exploration of cultural loss and adaptation, the book challenges conventional understandings of cultural identity and globalization. It provides a valuable contribution to the field of cultural studies and offers insights that will be of interest to scholars, researchers, and anyone with an interest in the complex dynamics of human history and cultural change.

ISBN-13: 9781805391364