Literatures of Urban Possibility

City literature explores the potential of cities, focusing on what is possible for them and presenting the urban environment as a site of possibility for individuals or communities. The book combines reflections from various geographical and cultural contexts, engaging with issues such as city planning, mass housing, gentrification, informal settlements, and translocal identities, showcasing imaginative literature's role in outlining what possibility means in cities.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 281 pages
Publication date: 23 May 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This captivating book delves into the realm of city literature, exploring the profound ways in which it addresses questions of possibility. Within this literary genre, ideas of possibility manifest primarily through two compelling perspectives. Firstly, city literature emphasizes the vast potential that cities possess, envisioning a future where cities can thrive and flourish. Secondly, it presents the urban environment as a fertile ground for individuals and communities to realize their aspirations and dreams.

To achieve this, the book brings together a diverse range of reflections on urban possibility from various geographical and cultural contexts. Beyond the English-speaking world, individual chapters delve into the realm of possible cities and possible urban lives in Turkey, Israel, Finland, Germany, Russia, and Sweden. This broad geographical coverage ensures a comprehensive exploration of the diverse tapestry of urban experiences.

Furthermore, by engaging with pressing issues such as city planning, mass housing, gentrification, informal settlements, and translocal identities, the book showcases the imaginative power of literature in defining what possibility means in cities. It paints a vivid picture of the diverse ways in which cities can be shaped, transformed, and reimagined, offering a rich tapestry of insights and perspectives.

Through its thoughtful and insightful analysis, this book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and anyone interested in understanding the complex dynamics of urban life and the endless possibilities that exist within urban spaces. It encourages readers to think critically about the urban environment and to explore new avenues for envisioning and creating a more inclusive and sustainable future for cities and their inhabitants.

Weight: 394g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030709112
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021